The Boston Celtics' media day is tomorrow, and one of the biggest stories surrounding the team is the roster changes the team went through during the offseason. Luke Kornet signed with the San Antonio Spurs, while Jrue Holiday was traded to the Portland Trailblazers, and Kristaps Porzingis was sent to the Atlanta Hawks. The availability of Jayson Tatum is up in the air following his Achilles tear in the second round of the playoffs. Al Horford was still a free agent, but that changed when NBA insider Shams Charania broke the news on Sunday that he officially signed with the Golden State Warriors.
Horford signing with Golden State had been expected for some time, but it is now official. Since returning to the team before the 2021-2022 season, Horford has been a consistent member of the rotation. Following the announcement of his signing with the Warriors, Horford took to social media to say goodbye to the Celtics and the fans.
Al Horford Shares Heartfelt Message with Boston
In a post on his social media accounts, Horford said goodbye to Boston. He thanked the organization and fans for welcoming him and his family into the city, adding, "this chapter in my career will hold a special place in my heart. Raising Banner 18 with this city will be a moment I will always cherish. I am forever grateful for the fans and the organization."
Horford played an important role for the Celtics during the 2023-2024 NBA season, which ended with the Celtics winning the NBA championship and Horford winning his first title.
It had been expected that Horford would be gone for some time, but this is still a big loss for the team. Going into this next season, the lack of frontcourt depth will be the biggest question mark for the team. While it’s unfortunate that Horford won’t be on the Celtics this season, he has played an important role for the team over the past few years and should be appreciated by the fans.
The Celtics will be a fascinating team to follow this season, given how many new faces will get chances to play. For Horford, the expectation is that he’ll become the Warriors' starting center. The Celtics and Warriors' first game of the season takes place on Thursday, February 19, at the Chase Center. Horford will be returning to Boston when the teams meet again on Wednesday, March 18.