Al Horford, a pivotal player for the Boston Celtics over the past nine seasons, has officially signed with the Golden State Warriors. The decision follows a wildly successful run in Boston, where he brought home the franchise’s 18th NBA title in 2024. Horford’s move to the Warriors is part of a two-year contract valued at $5.7 million, utilizing the taxpayer’s mid-level exception, which includes a player option for the second year.
Horford’s move to Golden State represents an unprecedented turn in his career. He framed the choice to depart Boston as an agonizing one.
“It wasn’t an easy decision for me to leave Boston, but if there was the place, that was this one, and it happened and I happened to give this opportunity, so I jumped at it.” – Al Horford
The 37-year-old center provided a glimpse of his versatility during his brief stint in Boston. It is this adaptability that should make him a welcome addition to the Warriors. He shares the floor with other defensive anchors such as Draymond Green and rookie Trayce Jackson-Davis. This pairing gives Golden State more tactical flexibility on offense. Defensively, Horford can excel as the “5,” holding it down as a traditional big man would. His ability to stretch the floor opens up room for a strategic 5-out lineup.
The Warriors stand to gain from Horford’s particular set of skills in several different respects. He’s your prototype big man—great rebounder, floor defender, quick with the smart pass. In addition, he comes to the MIC with experience and leadership that will serve the team well. That’s what makes him such a natural fit for Golden State’s system.
Steve Kerr, head coach of the Golden State Warriors, spoke before Game 2 on how crucial Horford was to his team’s matchup.
“It’s huge to not only have a space 5, but it’s not just any space 5 — it’s Al Horford.” – Steve Kerr
Horford’s arrival would allow the Warriors even more flexibility on offense and defense. His ability to stretch the floor while neck-and-neck with Green opens up strategic matchups that create possible matchups, slides and disadvantages on the opposite side. Putting him together with Jackson-Davis gives the Warriors a double-big alignment that is sure to give killer instinct to the opposite defenses.
To some, it looked like his decision to join the Warriors was made too lightly. Horford said the entire offseason was a challenging time as he waited for answers on what his future would be.
“It was definitely a very odd offseason, just kind of waiting and waiting and seeing what’s going to happen, seeing what’s going to take place.” – Al Horford
Even during Horford’s time with the Boston Celtics, his minutes were carefully managed to keep him healthy and impactful during marathon seasons. Whenever possible, the coaching staff denied him the opportunity to play in back-to-back games. His limestone management has made sure he is still in A+ condition and able to make an impact renaissance man on the court.
Horford brings a ton of experience and a winning pedigree in crunch time. He thinks signing with Golden State gives him the best chance to keep succeeding.
“It’s a great opportunity to compete and to win at a high level.” – Al Horford
Horford is excited to embark on this new chapter with the Warriors. Fans and analysts alike are on the lookout to see how his addition will affect Golden State’s success next season. His wealth of experience means he should be a major factor in the Warriors’ strategy. Combined with the team’s proven draft-and-develop paradigm, he fuels their search for future titles.
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