The Boston Celtics have undergone a significant roster transformation in recent days. They first traded All-Defensive guard Jrue Holiday to the Portland Trail Blazers—receiving Anfernee Simons and future second-round picks in return—before completing a three-team deal that sent Kristaps Porzingis to the Atlanta Hawks while acquiring Georges Niang and another second-round pick.
These moves were partly driven by a pressing need to reduce salary under the league’s second luxury tax apron, especially with Jayson Tatum sidelined by a ruptured Achilles.
Both stars played vital roles in the Celtics’ 2024 championship run. Porzingis was Boston’s starting big man and primary rim protector, while Holiday, a reliable playoff performer and defensive anchor, also earned praise for his sturdy perimeter defense.
Boston Celtics center Al Horford (42) and forwards Jayson Tatum (0) and Jaylen Brown (7)
Boston Celtics center Al Horford (42) and forwards Jayson Tatum (0) and Jaylen Brown (7)
© David Butler II-Imagn Images
Now, with both veterans gone and Tatum out for much of next season, Boston will look to strengthen its roster ahead of next season.
According to NBA Insider Shams Charania via The Pat McAfee Show, more change could be on the horizon for the Celtics, one that could involve 39-year-old veteran Al Horford. The veteran center reportedly has a serious market that could place Boston in danger of losing him.
“There’s an uncertainty around Boston right now with Jayson Tatum potentially missing all of next season,” Charania said. “I am told Al Horford has a pretty robust free agent market outside of Boston.”
Horford remains a productive and versatile presence, averaging 9.0 points and 6.2 rebounds across 27.6 minutes this past season. His ability to space the floor and provide veteran leadership has value on contending teams.
Should the Celtics trade him, they will face a sudden void in both experience and frontcourt depth—especially with Porzingis and Holiday gone and Tatum unavailable.