Al Horford’s next move remains uncertain, but more teams are entering the mix as the veteran center decides whether to play a 19th NBA season or retire.
According to Marc Spears of ESPN, the Los Angeles Lakers, Milwaukee Bucks, and Atlanta Hawks have all expressed interest in signing the 39-year-old big man. This comes in addition to the Golden State Warriors, who have long been viewed as the frontrunners if Horford opts to continue playing.
Spears reported Monday on NBA Today that Golden State “expected him to sign last week,” but Horford has delayed his decision. The five-time All-Star is also considering retirement as he awaits the birth of his sixth child and weighs the impact of playing far from family.
Horford, who splits his offseason between Atlanta and Boston, has kept his options open throughout free agency. Brian Robb of MassLive noted that Horford is “not in any hurry” and is taking time to evaluate all possibilities before making a final call.
The veteran completed his 18th season with the Boston Celtics in 2024–25, contributing as a key reserve during their championship run. With Boston transitioning to a younger core, a return to the Celtics is considered unlikely.
Shams Charania of ESPN reported earlier this month that Horford was already weighing offers from Golden State and Los Angeles while retirement remained on the table. Charania added that Horford “has earned the right to make a decision at his own time” after nearly two decades in the league.
Horford’s championship experience, defensive versatility, and leadership make him an appealing target for contenders like the Lakers and Bucks, who are seeking depth and veteran presence.
