Al Horford, the ageless NBA big man and five-time All-Star, is making headlines once again—this time for his imminent move to the Golden State Warriors. At 39, Horford is proving that experience and leadership are still hot commodities in the league, even as he closes the door on a storied Boston Celtics tenure.
Warriors Eye Horford as Their New Anchor
The buzz around Horford’s free agency has been building for weeks, but the latest reports point to a clear destination: the Golden State Warriors. According to multiple sources, Horford plans to sign with the Warriors as their starting center, but the deal is contingent on the resolution of Jonathan Kuminga’s restricted free agency situation. Once that domino falls, Horford is expected to officially join the Bay Area squad.
This move would mark Horford’s 19th NBA season—a remarkable feat for any player, let alone a center. Last season with the Celtics, Horford averaged 9.0 points and 6.2 rebounds per game, continuing to provide steady production and veteran savvy on both ends of the floor.
Celtics Say Goodbye: “Unlikely” Horford Returns
Boston Celtics fans hoping for one more run with Horford will be disappointed. Celtics president Brad Stevens recently confirmed that while the team made offers to both Horford and fellow big man Luke Kornet, a return for Horford is now considered “unlikely.” The Celtics are facing financial constraints and appear to be entering a reset phase, making it difficult to retain their veteran center.
Horford’s departure closes a significant chapter in Boston, where he played seven of his 18 NBA seasons and helped the team capture the 2024 NBA title. His leadership and playoff experience were invaluable, but the Celtics are now looking to the future.
Why the Warriors Want Horford
Golden State’s interest in Horford is no surprise. The Warriors have been searching for a reliable, experienced center to anchor their defense and provide floor spacing. Horford’s ability to stretch the floor with his shooting, combined with his high basketball IQ and locker room presence, make him an ideal fit for Steve Kerr’s system.
However, there are risks. At 39, Horford is more susceptible to injuries, and the Warriors will need to carefully manage his minutes to keep him healthy for a potential playoff run.
Lakers Also in the Mix—But Warriors Lead the Race
The Los Angeles Lakers reportedly considered Horford as a free agency target, but all signs now point to the Warriors as his next home. The Lakers’ interest underscores Horford’s value even at this late stage of his career, but Golden State’s need and fit appear to have won out.
What This Means for the NBA Landscape
Horford’s move to the Warriors could have ripple effects across the Western Conference. Golden State, already a perennial contender, adds a proven winner and stabilizing force to their frontcourt. For Horford, it’s a chance to chase another championship and cement his legacy as one of the league’s most respected veterans.
Key Takeaways:- Al Horford is expected to sign with the Golden State Warriors as their starting center, pending the resolution of Jonathan Kuminga’s contract situation.
- A return to the Boston Celtics is now considered “unlikely,” marking the end of an era in Boston.
- The Warriors will rely on Horford’s experience but must manage his health carefully.
- The Lakers showed interest, but the Warriors are the clear frontrunners.
Stay tuned—Horford’s official signing could be announced any day, and the NBA’s balance of power may shift yet again.
Sources
1. Details Emerge About Al Horford's Plans For 2025 - The Cold Wire
2. Warriors mailbag: Jonathan Kuminga, Al Horford, and more!
3. Celtics officially call an Al Horford return 'unlikely'
4. Al Horford a 'serious consideration' for Lakers in free agency
5. Al Horford: Breaking News, Rumors & Highlights - Yardbarker
6. Warriors mailbag: Jonathan Kuminga, Al Horford, and more
7. Al Horford reportedly still seeking to continue NBA career in 2025-26 season
8. Let the darts fly: Boston's path through a transitional year - Celtics Blog
9. The Al Horford Situation Might Finally End Soon
10. These Boston Celtics are extremely likable | CelticsBlog
11. Al Horford's Future is Still in Question
12. Celtics' Al Horford Expected to Sign 2-Year Deal With West Squad, Says Insider
13. END OF AN ERA: AL HORFORD SAYS FAREWELL TO CELTICS IN HEARTFELT EXIT | Boston Celtics News
14. 🚨MAJOR Al Horford Free Agency UPDATE via NBA Insiders | Celtics Rumors
15. END OF AN ERA: AL HORFORD BIDS FAREWELL TO BOSTON CELTICS | Boston Celtics News
