The Boston Celtics let Al Horford walk in the offseason because they knew he was declining. The 39-year-old played a key role on their 2024 title squad and several contending rosters. Horford made his reasons for joining the Warriors clear, but the Celtics' desire to trim payroll after Jayson Tatum’s injury played a key role. Boston let the five-time All-Star go because they knew he’d be on the verge of retirement by the time the Celtics were ready to contend again.
He has taken a massive step back in Golden State. The Warriors are managing his minutes, but the decline has tanked his production.