Al Horford Returns for 18th NBA Season
Al Horford, the seasoned 38-year-old big man, is set to return to the Boston Celtics for his 18th NBA season in 2024-25. This news has been confirmed by team owner Wyc Grousbeck, who expressed confidence in Horford's continued contribution to the team. "Al is coming back for next year," said Grousbeck. "That's what I've been told."
Horford's Background and Achievements
A five-time All-Star, Horford has had an illustrious career marked by consistent performance and adaptability. This season, he accepted a new role as Boston's sixth man, only to later step back into the starting lineup following an injury to Kristaps Porzingis.
Performance and Statistics
In the postseason, Horford averaged 9.2 points and 7.0 rebounds in 30.3 minutes per game, demonstrating his enduring skill and versatility. His true shooting percentage during the playoffs was an impressive 60.9%—a testament to his efficiency on the court. With Horford on the floor, Boston outscored its playoff opponents by 11.4 points per 100 possessions, underscoring his significant impact.
Versatility and Adaptability
Horford remains one of the game’s most versatile big men. Comfortable in various pick-and-roll coverages, his defensive aptitude continues to be a valuable asset. 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 function as a handoff hub further enriches the Celtics' offensive strategies.
Contract and Value
Next season, Horford is owed $9.5 million, a sum that reflects both his experience and ongoing contributions. The extension he signed in December 2022 has proven to be a bargain for the Celtics, and it seems to have worked out well for Horford as well. "He loves it here. He and his family love it here. He couldn't be happier. We are all so happy," said Grousbeck, emphasizing the mutual satisfaction in Horford's arrangement with the team.
A Player Who Continues to Deliver
Despite a usage rate that has fallen to 11.9% over the last two seasons, Horford continues to be effective, whether spacing the floor, moving the ball, or finding a bucket in the post or off the dribble in a pinch. His ability to consistently perform across various facets of the game solidifies his status as a key player for the Celtics.
Looking Ahead
As Horford prepares to defend his title and return for another season, his presence promises to bolster the Celtics both on and off the court. The blend of his seasoned experience and unwavering dedication bodes well for Boston’s aspirations in the coming season.
In Summary
Al Horford's return for the 2024-25 season is a significant boost for the Boston Celtics. His versatile skill set, impressive postseason performance, and deep-rooted commitment to the team make him a linchpin in Boston's lineup. Both Horford and the Celtics look forward to another promising season, fortified by the veteran’s invaluable presence.
Quotes from Wyc Grousbeck:
"Al is coming back for next year." - Wyc Grousbeck
"That's what I've been told." - Wyc Grousbeck
"Ironically, we won in '08 over Al's team." - Wyc Grousbeck
"The Hawks took us to seven [games] in the first round, so we were part of his drought." - Wyc Grousbeck
"And now he came home to us." - Wyc Grousbeck
"He loves it here. He and his family love it here. He couldn't be happier. We are all so happy." - Wyc Grousbeck