Celtics could lose Al Horford to free agency amid offseason overhaul

The Boston Celtics have already traded away two key pieces from their 2024 championship team this offseason, and they could be preparing to lose another to free agency. 

After falling to the Knicks in the Eastern Conference semifinals, the club’s direction next season remains unclear, especially following Jayson Tatum's torn right Achilles sustained during the series. By maneuvering below the second apron through trades involving Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis, the Celtics have signaled a significant retooling in the coming months. 

One potential casualty of that retooling? Veteran big man Al Horford. 

According to Ryan Giancola of the New York Post, there’s a strong possibility that Boston could lose Horford this summer. 

The 18-year veteran is expected to draw interest from several contenders and could receive a fairly lucrative offer — one that Boston may be unwilling to match. With Tatum’s return to the court next season uncertain, Boston is unlikely to go all-in for another title push, making a reunion with Horford less likely. 

Now entering his age-39 season, Horford appears to be nearing the end of his NBA career. While he remains a fan favorite in Boston and has spent seven total seasons with the franchise, signing a deal elsewhere remains a real possibility. 

Horford appeared in 60 regular-season games in 2024-25, averaging 9.0 points, 6.2 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 0.9 blocks across 27.7 minutes per game. However, his efficiency dipped, as he shot a career-low 42.3 percent from the field. 

As the team prepares to be without Tatum for a significant stretch, Horford’s future in Boston will be one of several key decisions the Celtics face this offseason. While he has been an invaluable part of Boston’s recent success, the time may be right for both sides to move on.