Al Horford Likely On His Way Out of Oklahoma City
Veteran center Al Horford says he is excited by the Oklahoma City Thunder rebuild, although his future is still unclear.
Al Horford agreed with the Thunder to shut himself down for the final 28 games of the season, a ‘mutual decision’.
The decision was spurred by the injury to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who missed the final 29 games. With Alexander, Luguentz Dort, a favourable draft and a salary cap warchest, Oklahoma is investing in a new, young roster.
“We’ve had great communication since the moment I got here, and leading to that point, once Shai’s injury happened, it just kind of brought that question even sooner,” Horford said.
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“Both of us understanding that the team also wanted to play younger guys and see what they could do with their development, and for me, for myself, health-wise, what’s best for me, putting me in the best position to be able to play at a high level for many years to come.”
The 34 year old has $53.5 million and two years left on his contract, of which $14.5 million is partially guaranteed for the final year. Al Horford averaged 14.2 points, 6.7 rebounds and 3.4 assists in 28 games this season.
It’s likely he will be traded, although the door is not completely shut with the Thunder.
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“I’m sure that I’ll be talking with the team and we’ll figure out what’s best,” Horford said of a trade.
“It’s a conversation that, when it comes up, I’ll have to talk with the team, and [general manager] Sam [Presti] most importantly, about it and kind of go from there,” Horford said. “I’ve just been very impressed with how well the organization — it is here, all the resources that we have and all the players that we have. It’s something that really excites me.”
