“Golden State expected him to sign last week, he didn’t. Lakers, Milwaukee, Atlanta I believe are also interested…he’s still considering retiring, he’s not in any hurry. You know who I think’s gonna be in this decision: His 10-year son”
Brad Stevens Breaks Silence on Former Celtics All-Star’s Future
Al Horford remains unsigned more than two weeks into free agency—but it’s not due to a lack of interest. According to Marc Spears, two additional teams have now joined the mix: the Milwaukee Bucks and Atlanta Hawks, both reportedly showing interest in the 38-year-old veteran big, who spent the last several seasons with the Boston Celtics.
They join a growing list that already includes the Golden State Warriors and Los Angeles Lakers. But Horford’s next move remains uncertain, as retirement is also still “on the table,” Spears noted this week on ESPN.
“He’s still considering retiring, he’s not in any hurry,” Spears said. “He’s got a sixth kid coming on the way, he lives in Atlanta and Boston in the offseason. I’m hearing that whether it’s Golden State and a lesser extent to the Lakers, being away from the family that far isn’t going to be in that decision.”
Meanwhile, Celtics President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens seemingly confirmed Horford won’t return to Boston during an interview on NBA TV during the team’s Summer League matchup against the New York Knicks. While listing Boston’s offseason departures, Stevens included Horford—who technically hasn’t signed elsewhere yet.
“It’s hard to see Jrue go. It’s hard to see Kristaps go, Luke, Al,” Stevens said. “It’s just been unbelievable people to have in our group and have added value… I know when they come back to Boston this year, it’ll be pretty special, the tributes to all of them.”
Celtics Address Al Horford’s Future
The door hasn’t officially closed. But last week, in a more formal press conference setting, Stevens echoed a similar message to his Summer League comments—indicating that the Celtics don’t expect Horford to return.
“It’s not final,” Stevens said in the press conference, “but I would say it looks unlikely.” Still, he took time to express how deeply Horford’s presence was felt. “I could probably talk about Al my whole press conference and not say enough… But I don’t want to speak in absolute terms until an ultimate decision is made.”
The press conference also included farewells to other outgoing names like Jrue Holiday, Kristaps Porzingis, and Luke Kornet. But Stevens took a moment to tip his hat to Horford’s impact: “If he were to go and play somewhere else, [he] was an all-time Celtic. A winner. Did everything he could for this organization—not only from the games but also how he impacted our younger players.”
A Celtic Through and Through
Horford played a crucial role in the team’s 2024 championship run, starting 42 games during the regular season and stepping up again in the playoffs. His 9.0 points per game on 42% shooting (including 36% from deep) doesn’t tell the full story—Horford’s leadership, spacing, and switchability helped define Boston’s identity.
The 17-year vet has played 8 of those seasons in a Celtics uniform, first signing in 2016 and then returning via trade in 2021. Along the way, he became a fixture in the locker room, a mentor to Jayson Tatum, and a voice of calm in the heat of countless postseason runs.
When asked about retirement after Boston’s playoff exit, Horford kept it vague: “It’s just too soon to talk about that stuff,” he said, choosing instead to reflect on the moment.
What’s Next for Boston—and Horford
The Celtics are already bracing for change. As the front office reshapes the roster and moves into a new financial era, Horford’s future hangs in the balance. Whether he returns. Retires. Or signs with another contender. One thing’s clear: Boston won’t forget what he gave the franchise.
And if this is the end of Al Horford’s time in green, it marks the close of a chapter. One defined by professionalism. Poise. And an unwavering commitment to team success.
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