Veteran big man facing uncertainty amid tough offseason decision

The Boston Celtics are hoping to bring back a key veteran this offseason, but the five-time All-Star may have other suitors pulling him away. 

The Celtics have already shed salary this summer in an attempt to avoid second-apron penalties, trading away two major pieces from their 2024 championship run — Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis.

With free agency beginning Monday, the team faces another important decision amid financial constraints. 

39-year-old big man Al Horford is set to become an unrestricted free agent. While both sides have accomplished a great deal together, he could be on the move this summer. 

According to Adam Himmelsbach of The Boston Globe, Horford is still weighing his options and is unlikely to make a quick decision when free agency opens. 

“I’m told Al Horford continues to mull potential options for next season and at the moment appears unlikely to have a final decision on the first day of free agency tomorrow,” Himmelsbach wrote. 

Horford is expected to command a fairly lucrative contract this offseason, and contending teams are likely to compete for his services. 

The 18-year veteran played an instrumental role in the Celtics’ 2024 title run and is sure to draw interest from teams around the league looking to make a splash this summer. Horford’s veteran leadership and ability to space the floor could make a significant difference for a team aiming to get over the hump. 

Moreover, the Celtics may be reluctant to commit to a sizable contract to bring him back amid a retooling phase, as the club awaits Jayson Tatum’s return from a torn right Achilles tendon. 

Horford has remained a consistent contributor in recent years. He averaged 9.0 points, 6.2 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 1.9 three-pointers, shooting 36.3 percent from three-point range across 27.7 minutes per game in 60 regular-season appearances with Boston last year.