Celtics will likely lose Al Horford, but that may come with a shocking twist

In an appearance on NBA Today, ESPN's Brian Windhorst shared his belief that as Al Horford weighs his options, there are three finalists.

"He's valued by everybody in the league. He has lots of different options, including retirement," voiced Windhorst. "I would expect there's a decent chance if he continues his career, it's out here on the West Coast in either Golden State or LA."

The Los Angeles Lakers have since agreed to a two-year contract with Deandre Ayton. However, they're still in need of another center. After the Boston Celtics acquired Kristaps Porzingis, Horford started in 33 games in the 2023-24 season and 42 in the campaign that recently concluded. Perhaps signing Ayton won't dissuade him from moving to Tinseltown.

The purple and gold also have plenty of room to sign Horford and stay under the second apron. If they aim to shed more salary and dip under the first apron and perhaps dodge the luxury tax, then this might not be a match on either side.

As for the Golden State Warriors, Windhorst labels them as "very aggressive" about trying to acquire the 18-year veteran. Horford's plenty familiar with operating in double-big lineups and figures to form a dynamic defensive tandem with Draymond Green. At the other end, he'd give Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler a floor-spacing five. Head coach Steve Kerr could also tap into his facilitating as an offensive hub.

The Warriors' remaining patient about upgrading at the center position is a stark contrast to how the rest of the teams comprising Horford's reported free-agent market have behaved.

The New York Knicks have a deal in place with Guerschon Yabusele. The Denver Nuggets traded for Jonas Valanciunas. And the Cleveland Cavaliers are reportedly signing Larry Nance Jr.

How likely is it that Horford retires?

As for the third option listed by Windhorst, if Horford doesn't find his options compelling enough, then perhaps he would walk away. There's also the possibility that relocation pulls him away from his family. That might be a dealbreaker or something he would only do for a situation he loves as he pursues a second NBA championship.

However, Horford, who turned 39 in June, has been open about wanting to play into his 40s. He has described his workout regimen as a lifestyle, and he's plenty productive still on the hardwood.

The five-time All-Star produced 9.0 points, 6.2 rebounds, and nearly 1.0 blocks per game last season. He also knocked down 36.3 percent of the 5.2 threes he hoisted.

Athletes often want to play until they can't: whether that's due to injuries, age, or offers drying up. There's a reason Horford remains an attractive free-agent option for teams that view themselves as title contenders.

If the Celtics fit that description entering the upcoming campaign, he'd presumably remain in Boston. Unfortunately, that's not the case. However, as he weighs his choices, it is hard to believe he would end his career despite a desire to continue and the two-way impact he still has.

It would be unfortunate to see Horford's career end now due to these circumstances. However, when that announcement comes, it figures to start the countdown to his Hall of Fame induction.