A parting that was more of a hug: when a longtime player is moving out of a city that helped him develop, it is not always about money. It’s about thank‑yous. Al Horford arrived at the Boston Celtics back in 2015 as a 35-year-old, an age when most players in the NBA are actually winding down careers. He goes at 38, still producing at the highest level and reportedly a team in the Golden State Warriors that are still expected to compete towards the top of the NBA.

Since the fans heard that Al Horford was heading west, they were anticipating what his final word would be. Horford said on his final farewell in public that Boston and its people had a great deal for him and his family. He also appreciated the city, the team, and the fans who welcomed them and demonstrated that it is not just a change of roster, but a closing of a chapter.

“FROM THE MOMENT WE ARRIVED, YOU HAVE WELCOMED MY FAMILY AND I WITH OPEN ARMS. THIS CHAPTER IN MY CAREER WILL HOLD A SPECIAL PLACE IN MY HEART. RAISING BANNER 18 WITH THIS CITY WILL BE A MOMENT I WILL ALWAYS CHERISH. I AM FOREVER GRATEFUL FOR THE FANS AND THE ORGANIZATION. THANK YOU, BOSTON.” He wrote.

Al Horford, 39, decided not to retire but to continue playing. Basketball-wise, the pull of Golden State is evident: an experienced player who can stretch the floor, anchor defense, and mentor younger players is what fits the plan of the Warriors. The agreed deal is reported to be a multi-year contract for the player. Of course, there are plenty of threads as far as the overall move is concerned.

First and foremost, Horford comes from an organization that has already seen some major names leaving this summer. Boston has been forced into a clearout due to Jayson Tatum’s injury and that led to the farewell of stars such as Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis. In that sense, the ageing center is not a major loss for the Celtics.

However, the Warriors gain a lot. They spent a majority of the last season depending on a “small-ball” lineup that fielded Draymond Green at the center. As a result, the Warriors were easy to break down all through the season which eventually led to a heartbreaking exit at the hands of the Minnesota Timberwolves. That brings us to Horford, who has been an expert rim protector throughout his career and has a vision that is rare for players at his position.

There were reports that the final signing may be influenced by the contract of Jonathan Kuminga and that there would be a deadline. However, the concept is much more straightforward: Horford will be the center of the team, open the games, and provide the team with a winning spirit. 

Al Horford’s final chapter in a storied career?

The career trajectory of Al Horford is flexible and long-term. He was the third in the 2007 draft following a good performance in college. He played with Atlanta, Philadelphia, and Oklahoma City before getting to Boston, where he experienced a deep connection. His second tenure with the Celtics resulted in him becoming a major role player: spacing the floor, rim protection, and providing consistent leadership during the playoffs and the 2024 title run. The fans do not only recall the points but the times, defensive positions, timely three-points, and silent lifts he gave to his teammates.

The details of the contract he signed were not fully disclosed, but the fact that it is a multi-year contract indicates that both parties are anticipating that Horford will be an important contributor over a period of more than one season.

It is a transition that is both emotional and strategic: a favorite Boston character opens a new book to play on a championship-thirsty Golden State team and brings the memories of a special moment in his career with him. The fans of both cities will be able to see how Horford gets adjusted to a new system and how Boston substitutes his reliability.

What is your opinion? Will the veteran presence of Al Horford be the missing ingredient in Golden State, or will the core chemistry of the Warriors alter more than they anticipate?