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Tim BontempsESPN
BOSTON Al Horford Left the Celtics In free agency once. He did not want to do it again.
Horford stated that this was the main reason he signed a $20 million, two-year extension with Boston on Thursday. He will continue to be with the franchise through the 2024-25 seasons.
Horford told the Celtics after they held a shootaround in their practice facility prior to Friday night’s match against the Toronto Raptors, “For me it was really important to be a part” Miami Heat. “I felt like I was coming back to this place last year. I felt the strides that the group began to make, and we’ve continued making strides in the right directions.
“I feel that there is a purpose to trying to win, and that the group we have are just a really great group. We are still learning, but I am happy. This kind of stability is hard to find.
Horford was forced to do this by his own experience. Horford decided to leave Boston in 2019 after three seasons and two Eastern Conference finals appearances. Philadelphia 76ers Horford is currently under a $109 million contract for a four-year deal. However, he was unable to make the team in Philadelphia after a terrible first season. Joel EmbiidHorford’s salary was resigned to the Oklahoma City Thunder The next offseason.
After spending a full year with the Thunder and missing out on the playoffs, he was traded back the Celtics. Kemba Walker Brad Stevens was the first to become president of basketball operations.
Horford explained that he was able to accept less than what he could have on the open marketplace next summer as an unrestricted and free agent in order to continue his relationship with Boston.
Horford stated, “One of the things you want is to be in a position where you have a chance at contending, to win.” For me, it’s more than just basketball. Boston has a special place in my heart. I feel a strong connection to the people here and the Celtics’ values. This is something that excites me. It’s a special experience to have Brad believe in me and bring me here. I am truly grateful for this opportunity.”
Horford, 36 years old, has been signed until his 39th birthday. Horford, who is in his 16th NBA season already, said that he was not always certain he would be able have the same longevity that he has been able create for himself. He’s become a great long-range shooter as he gets older — nearly half of his 3-point shots this season are from 3-point range — something he credits to his time at the NBA. Atlanta HawksThis includes Rick Sund and Danny Ferry, as well as coaches Mike Budenholzer Kenny Atkinson.
Horford has been averaging 10.9 and 6.3 points per game this season. Boston is waiting for their return to defensive anchor. Robert Williams III from knee surgery that was performed just before training camp began.
Horford also stated that, given the way things have turned out, it was important for him to put aside any uncertainty and show his commitment to the Celtics. They enter Friday’s game with an 18-4 record.
Horford replied, “I believe this was something that was going be happening at some point or other.” When Horford was asked if there were any extension talks. “Like I stated, there were various things that the group had to deal. While there wasn’t any urgency per se, I wanted it to be short-term and not drag out to free agency and summer and all that stuff. Once the time was right, we can work this out and focus on the season.