In a stunning turn of events, NBA analyst Evan Sidery of Forbes revealed Tuesday morning that veteran center Al Horford is poised to leave the Boston Celtics, with his free agency decision narrowing down to two surprising contenders: the Denver Nuggets and the Golden State Warriors. Notably absent from the conversation is the Los Angeles Lakers, who were not mentioned among Horford’s potential destinations.
The 39-year-old Horford, a beloved figure in Boston during his two stints with the Celtics, played a pivotal role in their NBA championship run last season. Renowned for his professionalism, leadership, and mentorship of younger players, Horford has earned universal respect across the league. Despite speculation about retirement or a possible return to Boston, it now appears the veteran big man is determined to chase another championship elsewhere.
Al Horford will be making his decision between the Nuggets and Warriors on his next team.
If Jonas Valanciunas is intent on leaving for Europe, Horford becomes an extremely enticing option for Denver.
Currently, Golden State is viewed as the favorite for Horford’s services. pic.twitter.com/tmx8TqaOQe
— Evan Sidery (@esidery) July 8, 2025
According to Sidery and other reports, Horford’s future may be tied to developments involving another veteran center, Jonas Valanciunas. Recently acquired by the Denver Nuggets to serve as a backup to Nikola Jokic, Valanciunas is considered one of the league’s premier reserve big men due to his scoring prowess in the paint. However, interest from Greek club Panathinaikos has raised the possibility of Valanciunas returning to Europe. Should Valanciunas depart, Horford would become an ideal fit for Denver, bringing championship experience and veteran savvy to the Nuggets’ frontcourt.
Meanwhile, the Golden State Warriors have been heavily linked to Horford throughout the offseason. The Warriors present a unique opportunity for Horford to start at center alongside a star-studded core featuring Steph Curry, Draymond Green, and Jimmy Butler. This potential move could position Horford as a key piece in Golden State’s pursuit of another title.
“The hardest part about coaching that first year was when we didn’t win and I was like man I let Al down.”
— Joe Mazzulla talks about how much he wanted to win a championship for Al Horford pic.twitter.com/rdaKV8KKIY
— jb (@lockedupjb) July 8, 2025
For the Celtics, Horford’s departure makes sense given the team’s current roster overhaul. With Jayson Tatum expected to miss the entire upcoming season, Boston’s new ownership group has prioritized cost-cutting measures. Veterans Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis were traded to free up cap space, while backup center Luke Kornet signed with the San Antonio Spurs in free agency. Rather than pursuing high-profile veterans, the Celtics have shifted focus to younger, cost-effective players, including free-agent signing Luka Garza from the Minnesota Timberwolves, who is expected to see significant minutes in the frontcourt.
As Horford weighs his options between Denver and Golden State, the NBA world awaits his decision. Will he join the Nuggets to bolster their championship aspirations, or will he head to the Bay Area to start for the Warriors? One thing is clear: the Lakers, despite their need for frontcourt depth, are shockingly out of the race for the future Hall of Famer.