Al Horford is set to return to the Boston Celtics for his 18th NBA season in 2024-25, and the seasoned 38-year-old big man shows no signs of slowing down. Team owner Wyc Grousbeck expressed confidence in Horford’s continued contribution to the team, a sentiment shared by many within the organization and among the fan base.
Horford's Background and Achievements
Horford, a five-time All-Star, adapted to a new role this season as Boston’s sixth man. This change came about with the arrival of Kristaps Porzingis. However, an injury to Porzingis saw Horford return to the starting lineup, proving his invaluable versatility. Horford's ability to seamlessly transition between roles highlights his dynamic adaptability and commitment to team success.
Performance and Statistics
In the postseason, Horford averaged 9.2 points and 7.0 rebounds in 30.3 minutes per game. His true shooting percentage during the playoffs stood at an impressive 60.9%. More notably, with Horford on the floor, Boston outscored its playoff opponents by 11.4 points per 100 possessions. These statistics underline Horford’s substantial impact on the Celtics' overall performance.
Versatility and Adaptability
Horford remains one of the game’s most versatile big men. Defensively, he excels in various pick-and-roll coverages, providing a reliable presence both on the perimeter and in the paint. Offensively, Horford has proven to be an effective floor spacer. He made 42.9% of his catch-and-shoot three-pointers in the 2023-24 season and an even better 44.8% in the 2022-23 season. This consistency from beyond the arc forces defenses to extend, opening up the floor for his teammates.
Additionally, Horford’s ability to move the ball and operate as a handoff hub enriches the Celtics' offensive strategies. His high basketball IQ enables him to make quick, smart decisions, facilitating ball movement and creating scoring opportunities for his teammates.
Contract and Value
Next season, Horford is owed $9.5 million. The extension he signed in December 2022 has proven to be a bargain for the Celtics, considering his production and value to the team. It’s a testament to Boston’s shrewd front office operations and Horford's value-driven approach to his career.
A Player Who Continues to Deliver
While Horford’s usage rate has fallen to 11.9% over the last two seasons, he continues to be highly 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 perform across various facets of the game solidifies his status as a key player for the Celtics. Horford’s low usage rate belies his significant impact, making him an efficient and valuable component of the team’s rotational strategy.
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. As a respected veteran, Horford’s leadership will be crucial in guiding younger players and maintaining cohesion within the team. His understanding of the game and experience in high-stakes situations provide a steadying influence during crucial moments.
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 look forward to another promising season, buoyed by his presence and the stability he brings.
Team owner Wyc Grousbeck summed it up succinctly: "Al is coming back for next year. That’s what I’ve been told. 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. He loves it here. He and his family love it here. He couldn’t be happier. We are all so happy." With such resounding support from ownership, it’s clear that both Horford and the Celtics are eager to continue their successful partnership.