The Boston Celtics have signed center Al Horford to a contract extension.
Per the Boston Herald, “the C’s did not disclose terms of the deal, but according to multiple reports, it’s a two-year, $20 million extension that will keep Horford in Boston through the 2024-25 season, when he turns 39. The center’s $26.5 million salary for 2022-23 now becomes fully guaranteed with the deal.”
Horford (6-9, 240) has appeared in 295 games (all starts) with the Celtics and averaged 12.5 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 4.2 assists while shooting 49.5 percent from the field during his two stints with the organization from 2016-2019 and rejoined the team prior to the 2021-22 season.
“Al is such an important part of our team,” said Brad Stevens, President of Basketball Operations. “He’s a high-level player who enhances everyone around him on both ends of the court. His work ethic, commitment to his body and craft, and his unselfishness set a daily example on how to win big in the NBA. His leadership has had a big impact on the coaches and players he’s competed alongside here in Boston, and we’re excited that he and his family are choosing to remain Celtics for years to come.”
More from the Herald: “Horford will now effectively make $46.5 million over the next three seasons, a fair deal for a player who’s become integral to their championship aspirations.”
The five-time NBA All-Star has appeared in 968 career games (958 starts) during his 16-year career with Atlanta, Boston, Oklahoma City, and Philadelphia, during which he has averaged 13.6 points on 51.5 percent shooting, 8.1 rebounds, and 3.3 assists in 32.2 minutes per game. He is one of four active NBA players with at least 13,000 points, 7,500 rebounds, and 3,000 assists.
“Boston has become a home to me and my family as my teammates and I continue to strive towards winning Banner 18,” said Celtics center Al Horford.
Since being named to the 2008 NBA All-Rookie first team, Horford has collected All-NBA third team (2010-11) and All-Defensive second team (2017-2018) honors while reaching the NBA Playoffs 13 times.
