A new chapter begins for the 39-year-old big man as Golden State bolsters its frontcourt
Al Horford’s long association with the Boston Celtics has officially come to an end. The veteran center has agreed to a multi-year deal with the Golden State Warriors, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania, marking one of the biggest moves of the offseason.
The 39-year-old departs Boston after seven of the past nine seasons in green, a run that included helping the franchise capture its 18th championship in 2024. While Horford still refers to the Celtics as a “second home,” several key factors shaped his decision to seek a new opportunity out West.
Tatum’s injury and Boston’s roster shake-up
One of the biggest turning points was the devastating injury to Jayson Tatum. The Celtics star ruptured his Achilles during last season’s Eastern Conference semifinals against the New York Knicks, sidelining him for the entirety of the upcoming campaign.
The injury, combined with Boston’s offseason roster overhaul, left Horford facing an uncertain role. Jrue Holiday, Kristaps Porziņģis, and Luke Kornet were among the departures, creating instability in the frontcourt. For a player entering his 19th NBA season, the need for stability and a defined role was essential.
Horford’s impact in Boston
Horford leaves behind a legacy as one of the most respected Celtics of his generation. Known for his leadership and unselfish play, he averaged 9.0 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.1 assists across 60 games last season, shooting 36.3% from three-point range.
Beyond the numbers, his influence was deeply felt in the locker room. Teammates often praised his professionalism and leadership, with forward Luke Kornet once calling him “the best teammate I’ve ever played with.”
In a heartfelt farewell posted on social media, Horford thanked Celtics fans for their unwavering support:
“From the moment we arrived, you welcomed my family with open arms. Raising banner 18 with this city will always be one of the proudest moments of my career. I am forever grateful.”
What Horford brings to Golden State
For the Warriors, Horford represents both experience and versatility. At 6-foot-9, he provides size, rim protection, and floor spacing as a stretch big. His ability to hit outside shots and facilitate ball movement will complement Stephen Curry and new arrival Jimmy Butler on offense, while easing defensive responsibilities for Draymond Green.
Golden State, still driven by its championship core, sees Horford as a key piece in its bid to return to the NBA Finals. His debut with the team is set for October 21 against the Los Angeles Lakers.
What Boston loses without him
For the Celtics, the loss is significant. With Horford gone and Tatum sidelined, Boston’s frontcourt depth looks shaky. Neemias Queta is expected to step into the starting role, while Luka Garza, Chris Boucher, and Xavier Tillman Sr. will provide backup minutes.
The combination of roster turnover and Tatum’s injury casts doubt on Boston’s ability to contend for another title this season. Without Horford’s steady presence, both on and off the court, the Celtics face an uphill battle in the Eastern Conference.
A final shot at glory
As Horford embarks on his 19th NBA season, he does so with one clear goal: chasing a second championship ring. With Curry, Butler, and Green still operating at an elite level, the Warriors believe the veteran center could be the missing piece to another title run.
For Boston, his departure leaves not just a hole in the lineup, but in the fabric of the team. The Celtics will move forward, but for many in Boston, “Big Al” will always be remembered as one of the pillars of their modern era.