Contract watch: Players who could become cap casualties
Upcoming Free Agents: Al Horford Still Worth Over $20 Million
Nick Crain
11/14/22
Over the past several seasons throughout his thirties, the career trajectory of Al Horford has been somewhat unclear. He was a crucial piece of the Boston Celtics for quite a few years, but opted to join the Philadelphia 76ers before the 2019-20 season. After a disappointing season with the Sixers at 33 years old, many questioned how much Horford had left in the tank. In fact, his contract was viewed in such a negative light that Philadelphia had to attach major assets to the veteran in order to trade him away. The Oklahoma City Thunder were willing to take on Horford’s salary and gain a first-round pick while doing so. After a great season in Oklahoma City on a rebuilding roster, it was clear Horford was still a highly impactful player. In what was a perfect scenario, the Celtics traded with the Thunder to bring Horford back to Boston the summer after. In his first season back with the Celtics, he was a huge part of their success en route to an NBA Finals appearance.
To this point in the 2022-23 season, Boston has one of the best records in the NBA and has enjoyed a long winning streak. During this time, Horford has averaged an efficient 11.2 points, 6.1 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game while shooting 47.8% from beyond the arc.
At 36 years old, he’s still a legitimate starter on a contending team. The ProFitX Athledex pins Horford’s current performance value at roughly $24.97 million.
With that in mind, he’s set to be an unrestricted free agent next summer.
Will he sign a team-friendly deal with the Celtics or another top team in an attempt to win his first ring? Or is earning one final paycheck more valuable to him? Horford will be inching closer to 38 years old in the 2023-24 campaign.
We project Horford to be worth more than $15 million next season. While it’s unclear whether he’d sign a one-year deal or something longer, he’s absolutely still worth big money.
He plays a game that doesn’t rely on athleticism and he’s a great connecting piece. Horford is also a proven winner and fantastic veteran presence to have in the locker room. Regardless of where he signs this offseason, he will make a huge impact.
