Al Horford is set to return to the Boston Celtics for his 18th NBA season in 2024-25. The seasoned 38-year-old big man has established a storied career that now sees him ready to contribute in yet another season. Team owner Wyc Grousbeck has expressed confidence in Horford's continued value to the team.
Horford's Background and Achievements
Throughout his illustrious career, Horford has been selected as an All-Star five times, cementing his status as one of the league's elite players. This season, he embraced a new role as Boston's sixth man, showcasing his adaptability and team-first mentality. His role shifted back to the starting lineup following an injury to Kristaps Porzingis, underlining his importance to the Celtics' roster.
Performance and Statistics
In the postseason, Horford's contributions were pivotal. He averaged 9.2 points and 7.0 rebounds in 30.3 minutes per game. His true shooting percentage during the playoffs stood at an impressive 60.9%. With Horford on the floor, the Celtics outscored their playoff opponents by a notable 11.4 points per 100 possessions, highlighting his impact on both ends of the court.
Versatility and Adaptability
Horford remains one of the game's most versatile big men. He is comfortable in a range of pick-and-roll coverages, which makes him an asset on defense. Offensively, Horford has proven to be an effective floor spacer. He made 42.9% of his catch-and-shoot three-pointers in the 2023-24 season and an even higher 44.8% in the 2022-23 season. His ability to move the ball and function as a handoff hub enriches the Celtics' offensive strategies, adding layers of complexity that opponents must contend with.
Contract and Value
Next season, Horford is owed $9.5 million, a sum that underscores his value to the Celtics. The extension he signed in December 2022 has proven to be a bargain for the team, offering significant returns on the court. For Horford, the arrangement has worked out well, allowing him to continue playing at a high level with a franchise he deeply resonates with.
A Player Who Continues to Deliver
Despite his usage rate falling to 11.9% over the last two seasons, Horford continues to be a highly efficient player. Whether spacing the floor, moving the ball, or finding a bucket in the post or off the dribble in a pinch, he remains effective. His ability to perform across various aspects of the game solidifies his status as a key player for the Celtics, providing both reliability and versatility.
Looking Ahead
Horford's presence promises to bolster the Celtics both on and off the court. His seasoned experience and unwavering dedication bode well for Boston’s aspirations in the coming season. As both Horford and the Celtics look forward to another promising year, his return could be a catalyst that propels the team to new heights.
In Summary
Horford's return for the 2024-25 season is a significant boost for the Boston Celtics. His versatile skill set, postseason performance, and commitment to the team make him a linchpin in Boston's lineup. With the full support of the team and an optimistic outlook, both Horford and the Celtics are gearing up for what could be another successful season.
Quotes from Wyc Grousbeck
"Al is coming back for next year," confirmed Wyc Grousbeck. "That's what I've been told."
Reflecting on Horford's journey and their shared history, Grousbeck added, "Ironically, we won in '08 over Al's team. The Hawks took us to seven [games] in the first round, so we were part of his drought. And now he came home to us. He loves it here. He and his family love it here. He couldn't be happier. We are all so happy."