With Steven Adams signing a new deal to remain in Houston, another reliable big man is off the free agent board, potentially increasing the market value for remaining veteran centers like Al Horford and Luke Kornet, according to Brian Robb of MassLive.
Adams’ agreement reduces the pool of experienced frontcourt players available this offseason, especially as other notable centers, such as Myles Turner and Naz Reid, are expected to sign quickly or remain with their current teams.
Once those top-tier options are no longer available, teams in need of size and depth at center may shift their focus to more affordable, yet serviceable veterans like Horford and Kornet.
Robb notes that in such a scenario, both Horford and Kornet could draw interest at or above the taxpayer mid-level exception, which is currently set at $5.7 million.
That figure could become the going rate for capable backup bigs in a tightening market.
Fortunately for the Celtics, they retain Bird rights on both Horford and Kornet, giving them the flexibility to exceed the salary cap to re-sign either player if they choose to return.
This cap mechanism allows Boston to stay competitive in retaining its talent without needing to dip into exceptions or sacrifice other roster priorities.
In short, Adams’ contract sets a domino effect in motion, and with limited high-end big men available, Horford and Kornet may benefit from increased demand, whether from the Celtics or rival teams in need of reliable frontcourt help.
The Celtics are facing a potential shortage at center, plus more from Boston. https://t.co/59sKtf8IX1
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) June 15, 2025
