In a shocking twist that has NBA fans buzzing, former Boston Celtics champion big man Al Horford, arguably the top unsigned, unrestricted free agent, is reportedly poised to leave Beantown and join a Western Conference powerhouse. The 39-year-old, 6-foot-9 veteran, who helped the Celtics secure their 2024 title, is said to be eyeing a lucrative move to the Golden State Warriors, leaving Boston fans reeling from the potential betrayal.
According to NBA insider Dan Favale of Bleacher Report, Horford is on the verge of inking a two-season, $11.7 million taxpayer mid-level exception deal with the Warriors, complete with a player option for the 2026-27 season. This move would see the seasoned big man, a product of the University of Florida, swap the green and white of Boston for the blue and gold of Golden State, a team widely regarded as a legitimate title contender.
“Al Horford is most likely bound for the Golden State Warriors,” Favale boldly predicts, noting that the veteran is biding his time as the Warriors navigate the ongoing Jonathan Kuminga contract saga. The outcome of Kuminga’s situation could significantly impact Golden State’s offer to Horford. Should Kuminga’s extension prove costly, the Warriors might be limited to offering Horford a veteran’s minimum deal. However, if Kuminga is traded or moved in a sign-and-trade, Golden State could potentially unlock the full non-taxpayer mid-level exception, making their pitch even more enticing.
The Celtics, for their part, reportedly offered Horford a veteran’s minimum contract to stay in Boston, a gesture that now seems insufficient to retain the fan-favorite big man. Sources suggest that Horford, with his championship pedigree and versatile skill set, is seeking not only a bigger payday but also a team with a stronger shot at another title. The Warriors, with their star-studded roster and championship aspirations, appear to have positioned themselves as the perfect fit.
Horford’s potential departure is a gut punch for Celtics fans, who have cherished his leadership, defensive prowess, and clutch shooting during his tenure. The idea of him donning a Warriors jersey, battling against Boston in pursuit of another ring, feels like a betrayal of the highest order. Yet, for Golden State, landing Horford would be a masterstroke, adding a battle-tested veteran to a roster already brimming with talent.