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 is looking to continue making significant contributions to the team, with team owner Wyc Grousbeck expressing confidence in Horford's enduring value.
Horford's Background and Achievements
Horford boasts an impressive resume, being a five-time All-Star who has played a crucial role for the Celtics over the years. This season, he embraced a new role as Boston's sixth man but later stepped back into the starting lineup following an injury to Kristaps Porzingis. His ability to adapt and excel in various roles underscores his importance to the team.
Performance and Statistics
During the postseason, Horford averaged 9.2 points and 7.0 rebounds in 30.3 minutes per game. His true shooting percentage was an impressive 60.9%. Furthermore, with Horford on the floor, Boston outscored its playoff opponents by 11.4 points per 100 possessions, highlighting his critical impact on both ends of the court.
Versatility and Adaptability
Horford remains one of the NBA’s most versatile big men, showing comfort in various pick-and-roll coverages. Defensively, his experience and aptitude are invaluable assets to the Celtics. Offensively, he is an effective floor spacer, hitting 42.9% of his catch-and-shoot three-pointers in the 2023-24 season and 44.8% in the 2022-23 season. Additionally, Horford’s ability to move the ball and act as a handoff hub significantly enhances Boston’s offensive strategies.
Contract and Value
For the next season, Horford is owed $9.5 million, a figure that seems like a bargain given his continued high level of play. The extension he signed in December 2022 has proven to be beneficial for both the Celtics and Horford, providing the team with valuable veteran presence and skill at a reasonable cost.
A Player Who Continues to Deliver
Despite his usage rate dropping to 11.9% over the last two seasons, Horford remains incredibly effective. Whether spacing the floor, moving the ball, or finding a bucket in the post or off the dribble, he consistently delivers. His multifaceted game solidifies his status as a vital contributor to the Celtics' success.
Looking Ahead
The presence of Al Horford 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 a stabilizing force, Horford's return is eagerly anticipated by fans and teammates alike.
In Summary
Al Horford’s return for the 2024-25 season is a significant boost for the Boston Celtics. His versatile skill set, solid postseason performance, and commitment to the team make him indispensable in Boston's lineup. Both Horford and the Celtics look forward to another promising season together.
Quotes from Wyc Grousbeck
"Al is coming back for next year," said Wyc Grousbeck, expressing the team’s excitement about Horford’s return. "That's what I've been told."
Reflecting on 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."
The owner's comments highlighted the mutual affection between Horford and the Celtics organization. "He loves it here. He and his family love it here. He couldn't be happier. We are all so happy," Grousbeck concluded.