After the Boston Celtics’ unexpected second-round exit in the 2024-25 NBA playoffs, many believed the team’s championship window had closed. With star forward Jayson Tatum sidelined long-term due to a torn Achilles, the franchise parted ways with much of its 2023-24 title-winning roster trading Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis, while letting veterans Al Horford and Luke Kornet leave in free agency. Although Celtics executive Brad Stevens initially saw a Horford return as unlikely, the veteran big man remains unsigned. Now, with free agency winding down, could a reunion with the 39-year-old franchise favorite still be on the table?
Insider Shuts Down Possibility of Al Horford Rejoining Celtics
During an appearance on the Light Years podcast, Bobby Manning of Celtics on CLNS dismissed the idea of Al Horford making a return to Boston.
“There’s probably still some Celtics fans thinking, ‘If things fall through, could he come back?’ But I don’t think there’s any chance of that,” Manning said. “I don’t see him playing for the Celtics this season.”
Horford has been linked to the Golden State Warriors throughout the offseason. However, due to restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga’s unresolved status, Golden State has yet to make any roster moves. Once that situation is settled, Horford is expected to join the Warriors’ veteran-heavy lineup a move that could be bittersweet for Boston fans still holding out hope for his return.
