The Celtics held exit interviews Saturday, which meant a key veteran addressed his future in Boston.
Al Horford’s contract expires this offseason, and the Celtics must decide if they want to re-sign the five-time All-Star, who turns 39 on June 3. Horford was unsure if he would want to return for his 19th NBA season.
“For me, it’s just too soon to talk about that stuff,” Horford told reporters, per the Boston Herald’s Zack Cox.
Horford spoke a day after the New York Knicks ended Boston’s season in the second round of the playoffs. The All-NBA center also noted that he wanted to take some time with family and how there was “still a lot for me to process,” per The Athletic’s Jay King.
According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, Horford has no plans to retire. But the Celtics’ decision on the veteran will be dependent on how they manage their finances to get below the second apron. Jayson Tatum’s Achilles injury also clouds how Boston could build the team for next season.
Story continues below advertisement
“You can’t replace Al. I definitely hope we get that figured out because his locker room presence alone is just crucial,” Payton Pritchard told reporters, per CLNS’ Noa Dalzell. “We definitely need him back.”
Horford has been a valuable leader for the C’s in his two stints with the franchise. His impact goes beyond the box score, and it was a feel-good moment when he won his first championship last season. However, Boston might be forced to make a tough choice following a disappointing end to the season.