Boston Celtics: 3 C’s whose futures could be determined in series vs. Nets

Boston Celtics player No. 2) Al Horford

In his return campaign to the Boston Celtics, Al Horford has been an all-around net positive, serving as a do-it-all offensive contributor, a major-cog in the team’s top-rated defensive scheme, and, simply put, a veteran mentor for this still rather young core.

However, even though the big man has been a tremendous asset for this team all year long, as we’ve already alluded to, should they be bounced from the postseason in round one the front office will undoubtedly look to make some adjustments to the rotation prior to the start of 2022-23 and, due to his age coupled with his contract situation, parting ways with the 15-year pro could actually be one of the first dominos to fall during their offseason adjustment period.

At 35-years-old (will be 36 this coming June), it’s already evident that Horford is not in the C’s long-term plans, and, considering he’ll be making up to $26.5 million next season, perhaps Stevens could opt to cut the vet’s second stint with the franchise a bit shorter than expected.

Of course, the most popular way for Boston to execute this would be via trade.

Now, while they may not have the draft capital that would typically be needed to make a potential buyer interested in taking part in a deal involving a past-his-prime, highly paid big man, when taking into account that his salary is only partially guaranteed next year, the idea of a team swapping out one of their own unfavorable contracts (Buddy Hield is a name often linked as a potential offseason trade candidate) and clear up cap space may be enough to pique their interest.

Seeing Al Horford once again depart from the ball club may not be something Celtics fans are necessarily hoping to see this offseason, but should they underwhelm in the playoffs for a second straight year, moving his deal to potentially better fill out the rotation is a move that will strongly be considered.