The Boston Celtics have taken a major step towards becoming a contending team once again, signing former Atlanta Hawks center Al Horford to a 4-year max deal. Horford has been linked with the organization for weeks now, and despite late pushes from the Washington Wizards and Atlanta Hawks, Boston was able to finish on top. The Hawks, who signed center Dwight Howard yesterday, held Horford’s bird rights and were considered late favorites to re-sign their guy. However, sources say the two parties were off by as little as $6 million, swaying the 30-year-old All-Star to leave.
For Boston, the former Florida product brings a stellar offensive game that includes post skills as well as the ability to shoot from mid-range and the three-point line. On defense, Horford is an excellent shot blocker and has the athleticism and strength to bang with almost any big man. He fits perfectly into the mold of a modern NBA center and will bring much-needed experience and leadership to a Celtics roster built on youth and potential.
Just the beginning for the Celtics?
As big of a signing as this is for Boston, who are getting one of the most talented and versatile centers in the league, they may not be done. As the Horford news broke, Danny Ainge and his entourage of Boston athletes including Tom Brady were meeting with the ultimate prize of this year’s free agency, Kevin Durant. Because of the Celtics’ cap situation, they are able to sign two max contract players without moving any of their current pieces and can use Horford as a sweetener.
While Durant’s situation in Oklahoma City would be promising alongside Russell Westbrook, the Celtics boast young talent and future young talent through numerous draft picks. The franchise is aiming for a core of guards Isaiah Thomas, Avery Bradley, and Marcus Smart to go along with Horford, 3rd overall pick Jaylen Brown, and potentially Durant. The organization may very well be on its way to the success it has been used to seeing throughout its storied history.