NBA Rumors: Celtics, Al Horford, Warriors, De’Anthony Melton, Nigel Hayes-Davis

Veteran big man Al Horford may be on the move. That much you likely already knew.

According to Noa Dalzell of CelticsBlog, Celtics president Brad Stevens told reporters Tuesday that it’s “unlikely” Horford returns to Boston next season. Stevens added that the team made offers to both Horford and center Luke Kornet, who has since signed with the Spurs.

The 39-year-old Horford has been linked to the Warriors in recent weeks, and if he doesn’t return to Boston, Golden State appears to be among the top potential landing spots. The Warriors have been active in searching for veteran frontcourt help after parting ways with Kevon Looney.

Meanwhile, free agent guard De’Anthony Melton continues to draw interest, just not as much from the team originally believed to be in pursuit.

The Lakers were connected to Melton early in free agency, but that buzz has “cooled,” according to The Athletic’s Jovan Buha. Speaking during a livestream on Monday, Buha noted that the Warriors have now emerged as a more frequent destination in league chatter.

NBA insider Marc Stein echoed that report, writing that Golden State has become a “strong contender” to sign Melton.

Melton, 26, signed with the Warriors last offseason using their full non-taxpayer mid-level exception, but suffered a season-ending ACL tear just six games into the year. Before the injury, he was averaging 10.3 points and shooting 37.1% from deep, showing early signs of fitting well alongside Stephen Curry.

More Free Agent Notes

— Forward Nigel Hayes-Davis has officially parted ways with Turkish club Fenerbahce, the team announced. That clears the way for him to receive his FIBA letter of clearance and finalize a deal with the Suns. Hayes-Davis reportedly turned down a massive offer from Fenerbahce to return to the NBA.

— ESPN’s panel of Chris Herring, Zach Kram, Bobby Marks and Kevin Pelton handed out early free agency grades, giving positive marks to a handful of under-the-radar moves. Among those praised: Kornet to the Spurs, Brook Lopez to the Clippers, and Dorian Finney-Smith joining the Rockets.