Celtics Rumors: Al Horford Not Expected To Retire Amid Free Agency Interest

The Boston Celtics have already lost Jrue Holiday, Kristaps Porzingis, and Luke Kornet this offseason, and they may not be done shedding talent. Another free agent, Al Horford, appears unlikely to return as he garners interest from several contending teams.

After Jayson Tatum suffered a ruptured Achilles in the Celtics playoff defeat against the New York Knicks, it was clear that Boston was going to have to shed salary this offseason. While they wanted to re-sign Kornet and Horford, it became clear that was going to be difficult to accomplish.

Horford has drawn interest from a variety of teams, with the Golden State Warriors, Denver Nuggets, and Los Angeles Lakers all being in the market for his signature. As of right now, though, it seems like the Warriors are the most serious suitor.

Of course, given he turned 39 years old in June, retirement is an option for the veteran center. However, that hasn’t seemed to be the most likely path for him at any point, and according to a recent report, Horford isn’t expected to call it a career this offseason.

“Despite talks of retirement, SF Standard’s Danny Emerman said on The Garden Report that Horford isn’t expected to retire despite reports that option remains on the table,” Bobby Manning of CLNS wrote.

“Knowing Horford and those close to him, that would surprise me at this point too. He recently saw himself having multiple seasons left, with no immediate plans to end his career.”

Horford has remained a productive two-way big man, even as he reaches the end of his career. Last season, he averaged nine points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game while shooting 42.3% from the field.

Where Horford lands remains to be seen, and until he signs elsewhere, a return to Boston could be in the cards. However, one option that he does not appear to be seriously considering is retirement, meaning he should be back in action for the 2025-26 campaign.