Al Horford Rumors: Pelicans Not Actively Pursuing Free-Agent Big Man
June 29, 2019
The New Orleans Pelicans are reportedly not actively pursuing Boston Celtics' Al Horford ahead of him becoming a free agent Sunday at 3 p.m. ET, according to Marc Stein of the New York Times.
Stein had earlier reported the Pelicans—who are in need of another big man for essentially an entirely new roster next season—had interest in Horford but were afraid of being outbid for him.
Horford is hitting the market after declining his player option with the Celtics for next season.
Appearing on WEEI's Mut and Callahan, Sports Illustrated's Chris Mannix said Horford has a "great chance" to get a deal in the $90-100 million range.
The Pelicans are heading into 2019-20 with a core group of talent loaded with potential, but they are mostly unproven in the NBA.
When the deal with the Los Angeles Lakers and Washington Wizards involving Anthony Davis is finalized, the Pelicans' roster will include at least five players between the ages of 19-22 (Zion Williamson, Lonzo Ball, Jaxson Hayes, Brandon Ingram, Nickeil Alexander-Walker).
The Pelicans' $32.99 million in cap space means they have money to sign a max player.
Horford has earned plaudits from NBA general managers as one of the league's best leaders. The 33-year-old is still a productive player coming off a 2018-19 season in which he averaged 13.6 points and 6.7 rebounds in 68 games.