Al Horford Reportedly Doesn't Plan to Retire and Wants to Sign New Celtics Contract

Boston Celtics forward Al Horford doesn't see the 2024-25 season as the end of his road.

Brian Windhorst of ESPN reported that Horford "doesn't plan to retire" and would prefer to return the Celtics for 2025-26.

"Even if Horford doesn't re-sign -- he doesn't plan to retire and would like to return, sources said," Windhorst wrote. "Boston is facing a payroll, with luxury taxes, next season of $464 million, according to ESPN front office insider Bobby Marks."

Horford is in his 18th season and has spent seven of his last nine seasons with the Celtics. He was on Boston's 2023-24 NBA Championship team and is a five-time All-Star.

The 38-year-old played in 60 games in the regular season and averaged nine points, 6.2 rebounds and 2.1 assists. He has averaged 6.6 points, 6.4 rebounds and 1.9 assists in seven playoff games and has been a key role player for the strong Celtics team.

He carries a $9.5 million cap hit, per Spotrac. While this isn't an astronomical salary for what he contributes, the Celtics are currently $4.4 million over the second apron and have extensions coming in for several key players.

Boston will likely have to cut salary in the offseason and Horford could be a piece that they cannot keep. If that comes to fruition, it looks like the veteran will likely have to look elsewhere as he hopes to continue his career.