The Boston Celtics are in a serious financial crunch this offseason. GM Brad Stevens will desperately try to shed salary with the hopes of getting under the second apron to gain some financial flexibility going forward.
This plan, however, has its challenges. The Celtics still want to remain competitive in the short and long term. The 2025-26 season will perhaps be a transition season with Jayson Tatum's absence, but the Celtics want to be a title contender once Tatum returns. Therefore, Boston can't fully tear it down this offseason.
Despite shedding some salary, the Celtics still want to be a playoff team. This team is too good, even without Tatum, to fully tank. Retooling by trading Jrue Holiday and/or Kristaps Porzingis is what Celtics fans expect will happen.
Al Horford May Need to Take a Pay Cut to Stay in Boston
One move the Celtics have to make this offseason, however, is to bring back Al Horford. The veteran big man is reportedly coming back to play another season. The 38-year-old needs a new contract, but will likely have to take a pay cut to stay in Boston.
Horford was already playing on a team-friendly contract that paid him $9.5 million last season. He has been one of the best contracts for the Celtics over the last two years, as his defensive versatility and rim protection, while being able to shoot the ball on the other end, is very difficult to find.
Replacing Horford with a player of a similar mold is close to impossible for the Celtics, given their financial restrictions. At the same time, paying Horford around $10 million for next season is not an option, as it would make it challenging for Boston to get under the second apron.
So, the former five-time All-Star will have to play on a lower-value contract than he deserves if he wants to stay with the Celtics. If he does, he will once again prove why he has long been a fan favorite in Boston.