Al Horford is set to return to the Boston Celtics for his 18th NBA season in 2024-25. The 38-year-old big man, known for his versatility and basketball IQ, continues to be a crucial asset for the Celtics, a fact not lost on team owner Wyc Grousbeck.
Horford's Background and Achievements
A five-time All-Star, Horford has had an illustrious career by any measure. This season, he embraced a new role as Boston's sixth man, a testament to his adaptability and team-first mindset. An injury to Kristaps Porzingis later saw Horford stepping back into the starting lineup, where he continued to excel.
Performance and Statistics
Throughout the postseason, Horford's contributions were significant. He averaged 9.2 points and 7.0 rebounds over 30.3 minutes per game. His true shooting percentage stood at an impressive 60.9%. With Horford on the floor, the Celtics outscored their playoff opponents by 11.4 points per 100 possessions, underlining his positive impact on both ends of the court.
Versatility and Adaptability
What makes Horford such an asset is his versatility. He remains one of the game’s most adaptable big men, excelling in various pick-and-roll coverages. Defensively, his aptitude is invaluable, providing stability and assurance to the team.
Offensively, Horford has developed into an effective floor spacer. He made 42.9% of his catch-and-shoot three-pointers during the 2023-24 season, building on an even better 44.8% from the previous season. His ability to move the ball and function as a handoff hub only enriches the Celtics' offensive strategies, offering a multifaceted approach to their play.
Contract and Value
Next season, Horford is owed $9.5 million, a figure that seems like a bargain considering his continued importance to the team. The extension he signed in December 2022 has proven advantageous for both Horford and the Celtics, ensuring that the team retains a player of his calibre while managing financial constraints effectively.
A Player Who Continues to Deliver
Over the last two seasons, Horford’s usage rate has dipped to 11.9%, but this reduction has not hampered his effectiveness. Whether spacing the floor, moving the ball, or finding a bucket in the post or off the dribble, Horford remains reliable. His ability to perform 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 wealth of experience and unwavering dedication bode well for Boston’s aspirations in the upcoming season. He is more than just a player; he is a mentor and a leader, guiding the younger talent and maintaining the culture of hard work and excellence that the Celtics have built.
In Summary
Horford's return for the 2024-25 season is a significant boost for the Boston Celtics. His versatile skill set, postseason performance, and commitment to the team make him a linchpin in Boston's lineup. Both Horford and the Celtics are looking forward to another promising season.
Quotes from Wyc Grousbeck
Wyc Grousbeck, the Celtics’ owner, has expressed his confidence in Horford's ongoing contributions to the team. "Al is coming back for next year," he affirmed. "That's what I've been told." Reflecting on Horford's career journey, Grousbeck recalled, "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 emphasized how well Horford has settled in Boston, both professionally and personally. "He loves it here. He and his family love it here. He couldn't be happier. We are all so happy."
With sentiments like these from the ownership, it is clear that Horford's return is not just about statistics and performance. It’s also about the deep-rooted relationships and mutual respect that make the Boston Celtics a family.