Al Horford is set to return to the Boston Celtics for his 18th NBA season in the 2024-25 campaign. The seasoned 38-year-old center will continue to be a cornerstone for the Celtics, a sentiment confirmed by team owner Wyc Grousbeck, who expressed confidence in Horford’s ongoing valuable contributions to the team.
Horford's Background and Achievements
Horford, a five-time All-Star, has had a storied career. This season, he demonstrated his versatility by accepting a new role as Boston's sixth man. However, he stepped back into the starting lineup following an injury to Kristaps Porzingis, showcasing his ability to adapt seamlessly to changing team needs.
Performance and Statistics
In the postseason, Horford averaged 9.2 points and 7.0 rebounds in 30.3 minutes per game. His playoff true shooting percentage was an impressive 60.9%. With Horford on the court, Boston outscored its playoff opponents by 11.4 points per 100 possessions, highlighting his significant impact on both ends of the floor.
Versatility and Adaptability
Even at 38, Horford remains one of the NBA's most versatile big men. Defensively, he is adept at various pick-and-roll coverages, providing the Celtics with critical flexibility. Offensively, Horford has proven to be a highly effective floor spacer, converting 42.9% of his catch-and-shoot three-pointers in the 2023-24 season and an outstanding 44.8% in the 2022-23 season. His ability to move the ball and function as a handoff hub enriches Boston’s offensive strategies, making him an invaluable asset.
Contract and Value
Next season, Horford is owed $9.5 million, a figure that underscores the bargain of the extension he signed in December 2022. This deal has worked out excellently for both Horford and the Celtics, ensuring that the team retains his critical services at a reasonable cost.
A Player Who Continues to Deliver
Over the past two seasons, Horford’s usage rate has fallen to 11.9%, reflecting his adaptation to a slightly different role. Nonetheless, he remains highly effective, whether spacing the floor, moving the ball, or finding a bucket in the post or off the dribble when needed. His ability to excel across various facets of the game solidifies his status as a key player for the Celtics.
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. Horford’s leadership, combined with his on-court versatility, will continue to be an essential component of the Celtics’ strategy as they aim for success.
In Summary
Horford's return for the 2024-25 season is a significant boost for the Boston Celtics. His versatile skill set, impressive postseason performance, and commitment to the team make him a linchpin in Boston's lineup. Both Horford and the Celtics look forward to another promising season, with the veteran player's presence expected to be a stabilizing and invigorating force.
Quotes from Wyc Grousbeck
"Al is coming back for next year," said team owner Wyc Grousbeck. "That's what I've been told."
Reflecting on Horford's career journey, Grousbeck remarked, "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."
Grousbeck also highlighted Horford's contentment with the Celtics, adding, "He loves it here. He and his family love it here. He couldn't be happier. We are all so happy."
Al Horford's anticipated return is not just about maintaining a veteran presence but also about leveraging his extensive experience and skills to propel the Celtics toward their championship goals.