fbpx
Skip to main content

Report: Danny Ainge “excited” at chance to add Al Horford

Courtesy of USA Today Images

Al Horford is on the trade block, and Boston Celtics general manager Danny Ainge has the assets to facilitate a trade for the Atlanta Hawks star.

Per Chris Mannix of the Vertical, Ainge is excited about the opportunity to swing a deal that lands Horford.

“I think Boston, Al Horford is a legitimate possibility for the Celtics. I think that is one of the guys across the league that Danny Ainge is the most excited about. He is a four man that would fit right into what Boston is trying to do. It would cost a lot of money to re-sign him in the offseason, but I think Boston is willing to play it, because they haven’t paid a lot of money for players in recent years.”

Horford has an expiring contract, so any team interested in him must prepare for a three-month rental. Whether he stays in Atlanta or is traded, the 29-year-old will likely test the free-agent market this offseason.

Considering that, potential suitors with limited expendable pieces probably will shy away from a blockbuster deal. Boston, on the other hand, might possess enough to protect its future while adding Horford — and potentially a big-name free agent during the summer.

Although David Lee has a $15.5 million contract, it runs out after the season. Amir Johnson and Jonas Jerebko are both signed through the 2016-17 campaign, but the Celtics hold team options and could shed their $12 and $5 million deals, respectively.

Chasing Horford may entail parting with a combination of Marcus Smart, Avery Bradley, Jared Sullinger, Evan Turner and a draft pick, though Boston should guard its unprotected first-round pick from the Brooklyn Nets. That selection will probably be in the top three and will bring a terrific young prospect.

Additionally, the Celtics will attempt to keep Isaiah Thomas and Jae Crowder, who are on unbelievably team-friendly contracts for the next couple seasons.

Boston has the best chance to acquire Horford, but Ainge has a history of protecting the franchise’s future and patiently building the roster.

Mentioned in this article:

More About: