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Al Horford's Latest Free Agency Update Catches Attention on Thursday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Rowan Fisher-Shotton | Last updated Jul 3, 2025 4:21 PM ET

ESPN's Shams Charania reported on Thursday via SportsCenter that veteran center Al Horford is weighing three options in free agency: signing with the Golden State Warriors, joining the Los Angeles Lakers or hanging up his sneakers for good, per RealGM.

The 39‑year‑old, who just completed his 18th NBA season, "is reviewing multiple options, including the Warriors, the Lakers, but also retirement," Charania said, noting that "it would be a surprise if he makes a final decision by this weekend."

The latest report comes one day after the Lakers addressed their starting center spot by agreeing to a two‑year, $34 million deal with Deandre Ayton.

REPORT: Along with deciding between the Warriors and Lakers, Al Horford is considering retirement, h/t @RealGM pic.twitter.com/ouuksyl8E0
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) July 3, 2025

Fans online were quick to react to the latest update.

"LeBron got no pull anymore, players rather retire than play with him," said one user.

"They think a Celtics legend about to join the Lakers he will retire before he do that," another fan replied.

"He would rather retire then play for the Warriors or Lakers. tears bro," said one other commenter.

"Bro said he don’t wanna play for either of them," another user responded.

"Would rather retire then play for the Lakers lmaooooo," commented one other fan.

"Bro is so depressed by his options that he is just considering retiring ," said another user.

Los Angeles finished last season relying heavily on hybrid lineups, with Jaxson Hayes, Alex Len, Christian Koloko and even LeBron James logging minutes at center late in games following the Anthony Davis trade.

GM Rob Pelinka has made adding reliable veteran depth in the frontcourt a top priority with the addition of Ayton, but adding a versatile veteran like Horford would provide even more lineup flexibility.

The Warriors, on the other hand, remain anchored by their core of Stephen Curry, Draymond Green and Jimmy Butler, but also face a big hole at center.

Should Horford surprise by announcing retirement, both the Lakers and Warriors will need to revisit backup‑center targets quickly.

If he opts to play, his choice will offer insight into which franchise he views as the better championship opportunity.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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