Al Horford is set to return to the Boston Celtics for his 18th NBA season in 2024-25. At 38 years old, Horford remains a crucial part of the Celtics’ roster, bringing his extensive experience and seasoned play to the team. Boston Celtics’ owner Wyc Grousbeck has expressed confidence in Horford's ability to continue contributing significantly in the upcoming season.
Horford's Background and Achievements
A five-time All-Star, Al Horford has had a storied career in the NBA. This season, he accepted a new role as Boston's sixth man but was called upon to return to the starting lineup following an injury to Kristaps Porzingis. His ability to adapt and excel in various roles underscores his value to the Celtics.
Performance and Statistics
In the postseason, Horford's performance was particularly noteworthy. 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%. Furthermore, with Horford on the floor, Boston outscored its playoff opponents by 11.4 points per 100 possessions, highlighting his positive impact on the game.
Versatility and Adaptability
Horford remains one of the league’s most versatile big men, demonstrating comfort in various pick-and-roll coverages. Defensively, his aptitude continues to be a significant asset for the Celtics. Offensively, Horford has proven to be an effective floor spacer, making 42.9% of his catch-and-shoot three-pointers in the 2023-24 season and 44.8% in the 2022-23 season. His ability to move the ball and act as a handoff hub enriches Boston’s offensive strategies.
Contract and Value
Looking ahead to next season, Horford is owed $9.5 million, a figure that represents outstanding value for the Celtics. The extension he signed in December 2022 has proven to be a bargain for Boston, enabling them to retain a player of Horford's caliber at a reasonable cost. This arrangement appears to have worked out well for Horford as well, allowing him to continue contributing to a team and city he loves.
A Player Who Continues to Deliver
Despite his usage rate falling to 11.9% over the past two seasons, Horford continues to be remarkably effective. Whether spacing the floor, moving the ball, or finding a bucket in the post or off the dribble, he consistently delivers across various facets of the game. His ability to perform in different capacities solidifies his status as a key player for the Celtics.
Looking Ahead
Al 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. With a player like Horford returning, the Celtics can look forward to a strong, resilient frontcourt presence, capable of impacting the game in myriad ways.
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 vital linchpin in Boston's lineup. Both Horford and the Celtics are looking ahead to another promising season, aiming for deep playoff runs and possibly more.
Quotes from Wyc Grousbeck
Grousbeck shared his enthusiasm about Horford's return, stating, "Al is coming back for next year. That's what I've been told." Reflecting on their shared history, Grousbeck noted, "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."
These quotes emphasize the mutual respect and happiness between Horford and the Celtics organization, underscoring the strong bond that has developed over the years. As the new season approaches, both Horford and the Celtics are poised for success.