The Boston Celtics could also be with out Jayson Tatum for maybe all of 2025-26, and that has raised lots of questions on their path ahead.
What can they do to fill the sizable gap that will likely be left by Tatum’s absence?
Writing for Bleacher Report, Andy Bailey talked about Al Horford and his future with the workforce.
He recommended that Horford will stick round for no less than yet another season, and his expertise, experience, and ability can assist the Celtics whereas Tatum isn’t round.
“Al Horford hasn’t dedicated by hook or by crook on retirement, however he turns 39 in June. And if Boston goes to be pressured into one thing of a niche yr by Tatum’s harm, it’d make sense to stroll away now,” Bailey wrote. “The Celtics ought to nonetheless have a practical path to the playoffs even with out Tatum. And Horford’s management, exterior capturing and passing would make that path somewhat clearer. A return for one final journey (OK, perhaps two, simply so he can play with Tatum once more) on the veteran minimal would profit each side.”
At 38 years previous, Horford was nonetheless an enormous a part of the Celtics’ success in 2024-25.
He averaged 9.0 factors, 6.2 rebounds, and a couple of.1 assists and performed in 60 video games, capturing 42.3 p.c from the sector.
The Celtics now have to satisfy up with Horford and talk about what’s subsequent for him.
He may safe a contract extension, though it could be an affordable one.
The Celtics are desperate to have his enter and steering as they try to get by way of this era with out Tatum.
Horford has been a loyal and powerful a part of the workforce for years, and so they might have him now greater than ever.
If the worth is correct for each side, the Celtics and Horford may come to an settlement very quickly.
NEXT: Brad Stevens Hints At Celtics’ Offseason Plans