News around free agent center Al Horford has been slow this offseason as the big man tries to decide his next move. Horford is coming off another good season with the Boston Celtics, but due to financial restraints, Boston likely can’t retain him. Over 60 games played last season for the Celtics, Horford averaged 9.0 points, 6.2 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 0.6 steals per game. The center also shot 36.6 percent from beyond the 3-point line, showing his continued excellence from distance.
This has forced the veteran center to look elsewhere, and he has drawn interest from multiple teams across the NBA. Most around the league believe that he will ultimately end up with the Golden State Warriors, but the Los Angeles Lakers, Atlanta Hawks, and Milwaukee Bucks have also pursued him.
It has also been reported that Horford is considering retirement as well. The veteran has put together a strong NBA career, but it remains to be seen where he will play next season.
This waiting game for him to sign has been a little strange, and it has many wondering what could happen. Golden State remains the favorite if Horford doesn’t retire, but the longer that this goes on, the higher the chance that another team could swoop him to sign him.
Al Horford Signs With Los Angeles Lakers
Other than the Warriors, the team that makes the most sense for Horford to land with is the Lakers. Horford could take over as the backup center to Deandre Ayton, helping Los Angeles to bolster their frontcourt. Horford’s ability to space the floor could help make this Lakers offense even more dynamic, and he wouldn’t be relied upon super heavily. The veteran could play his minutes to the best of his abilities while helping this team go after another title.
Landing with the Lakers could give Horford a chance to play alongside LeBron James before he retires, and Horford has spoken highly about James in the past. The two veterans have shared an admiration for each other over the course of their careers, and this could finally be a time to link up.
If the Lakers were to add Horford, it would give head coach JJ Redick all sorts of options to mix and match the rotation throughout the season. The new way to win in the NBA is for teams to have strong depth, and the Lakers were lacking this last season, especially in the postseason.
The Lakers have been trying to build a more well-rounded roster that has options across the roster, and this could be a way for them to maximize this thought. Horford would also bring more leadership to the table, which is something that teams can always use more of.
The veteran could get a chance to go after another ring playing alongside James and Luka Doncic, which is what he likely wants to finish his career with. The Lakers make a lot of sense as a landing spot for Horford, and until he officially signs somewhere, you can’t count out Los Angeles in the hunt.
