Al Horford won't return to Celtics: report

Could Horford become a target for Knicks or Nets?

6/18/2019, 11:59 PM
May 8, 2019; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Boston Celtics center Al Horford (42) during game five of the second round of the 2019 NBA Playoffs against the Milwaukee Bucks at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports / Jeff Hanisch
May 8, 2019; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Boston Celtics center Al Horford (42) during game five of the second round of the 2019 NBA Playoffs against the Milwaukee Bucks at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports / Jeff Hanisch

Al Horford is reportedly set to hit the free agent market.

The five-time All-Star will decline his $30 million option with the Celtics, and though there had previously been a thought that Horford would return to the Celtics on a more team-friendly deal, Steve Bulpett of the Boston Herald is now reporting that Horford will look elsewhere, likely for a four-year contract.

 

According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, Horford and the Celtics did have discussions about a new deal, but talks have seemingly broken off.

Horford may not be a flashy name in the NBA's loaded free agent class, but he's consistently put up strong numbers since turning pro. The University of Florida product has averaged 14.1 points per game and 8.4 rebounds per game during his 12-year career.

He earned All-NBA third-team honors in 2010-11 and All-Defensive second-team in 2017-18.

Could Horford now become a target for the Knicks and Nets?

Signs continue to point towards Kyrie Irving eventually coming to the Nets, and perhaps Horford could follow his former teammate from Boston to Brooklyn.

Meanwhile, Horford could be a nice complementary piece for the Knicks if they are to pursue a bigger name like Kevin Durant, Kawhi Leonard, or others. After missing out on Anthony Davis, the Knicks are likely still looking to add to their frontcourt, and Horford's name has become one of the best available on the market.

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