Al Horford isn’t chasing anything anymore. Not minutes, not another title, not attention, not even one last contract. Nearly a month into NBA free agency, the 39-year-old veteran remains unsigned in a situation drawing more curiosity than concern around league circles.
At this stage of his career, Horford has the luxury of being selective. He’s earned the right to wait for the perfect fit rather than jumping at the first opportunity that comes his way.
Why Is the NBA’s Ultimate Teammate Still Available?
Horford appeared in 60 games for the Boston Celtics during the 2024-25 season, averaging 9.0 points, 6.2 rebounds, and shooting 36% from three-point range. However, Boston’s quest to repeat as champions didn’t go according to plan.
All-Star forward Jayson Tatum went down in the playoffs with a ruptured Achilles, derailing their championship hopes. Kristaps Porziņģis and Jrue Holiday were traded shortly after to kick off the summer. What started as a title-defending campaign ended with a second-round playoff exit and a roster now entering transition, with Horford seemingly an odd man out.
The situation leaves Horford in an unusual position. He’s a proven winner with championship experience, but he’s also approaching 40 years old on a team that’s rebuilding rather than reloading.
According to reports, the Golden State Warriors are interested in Horford and were considered the frontrunners in free agency. The team reportedly views Horford as a fit for their system and culture.
The Warriors expected Al Horford to sign last week, but he never did as he continues to explore other options, per @MarcJSpears.
The Bucks, Hawks and Lakers have also expressed interest in signing Horford alongside Golden State.pic.twitter.com/Irh19t182t
— Evan Sidery (@esidery) July 14, 2025
However, the Warriors’ top priority remains restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga. This puts Horford’s potential signing on hold, and there is speculation that Horford and the franchise have a mutual understanding that the courtship is based on financial flexibility and timing.
While Golden State works out the Kuminga situation, the Milwaukee Bucks, Los Angeles Lakers, and Atlanta Hawks have also reportedly expressed interest in the big man. The Lakers recently shored up their center position with the Deandre Ayton signing earlier this month, while the Hawks have Onyeka Okongwu and Porziņģis on their interior.
Could Retirement Be Al Horford’s Next Move?
If the deal with the Warriors doesn’t materialize, retirement becomes the likely path forward. Given Horford’s current career status, this idea isn’t far-fetched.
He’s an NBA champion, a five-time All-Star, a two-time NCAA champion at Florida, and has played 1138 regular-season games across 18 NBA seasons. That’s a career most players can only dream of.
Horford is widely respected for his leadership, versatility, and professionalism in embracing his roles, whether starting or coming off the bench, closing games, or mentoring young players. He’s never been a player who demanded the spotlight, instead finding ways to make his teammates better.
In theory, Horford has nothing left to prove. He’s won at every level, from college to the NBA, and has established himself as one of the most respected veterans in the league.
The teams in the hunt for his veteran leadership already know what he brings: defensive discipline, floor spacing, high-IQ decision-making, and zero ego. Contending teams covet experienced guys like Horford because his presence stretches far beyond the nightly box score. Horford is the glue and substance in a league that never lacks flash and hype.
Whether his final chapter plays out in Golden State or ends with a silent goodbye remains to be seen. But either way, Horford’s career speaks for itself, and that’s why there hasn’t been a rush to ink a deal this summer. When you’ve accomplished what he has, you earn the right to be patient.
