Celtics veteran faces crucial choice

Al Horford is at a crossroads. After 18 seasons in the NBA and winning a title with Boston in 2024, the 39-year-old veteran hasn’t yet decided about his future. According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, the Dominican has three options: joining the Warriors, signing with the Lakers, or simply retiring.

REPORT: Along with deciding between the Warriors and Lakers, Al Horford is considering retirement, h/t @RealGM pic.twitter.com/ouuksyl8E0

— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) July 3, 2025

Golden State leads the race to attract the veteran

The Warriors seem to be in the driver’s seat for this deal. The Athletic’s Anthony Slater reports that the California team is still awaiting Horford’s decision and operating as if the center is their absolute priority to fill their center position void. Golden State has already let Kevon Looney go to the Pelicans in early free agency.

The Ringer’s Rob Mahoney goes even further, stating that Horford’s move to the Warriors is seen as an « inevitable conclusion » in NBA circles. Steve Kerr’s team could offer up to $14.1 million if Jonathan Kuminga were to leave, though they would prefer an offer around $5 million annually to maintain salary flexibility.

Lakers complicate matters with Ayton

DeAndre Ayton’s arrival at the Lakers with the mid-level exception could complicate Los Angeles’s plans regarding Horford. Although the team still needs a stretch-five, Ayton now occupies the starting center role. The Lakers still have their bi-annual exception of $5.1 million, but the Warriors are now considered favorites.

Retirement remains a credible option for Horford, who has nothing left to prove after his two college titles and NBA ring. Uprooting his family after three years in Boston for just one season elsewhere wouldn’t be an easy decision, especially if none of his options offer a realistic chance at another title.

With averages of 9.0 points and 6.2 rebounds last season, while shooting 42.3% from the field and 36.3% from three-point range, Horford remains a valuable player despite his advanced age. His defensive versatility and floor-stretching ability make him a sought-after asset, even as he approaches 40.