By Matt Dolloff, 985TheSportsHub.com
Al Horford isn’t just leaving the Celtics, he’s jumping right to a top conference rival. The veteran big man has agreed to a four-year, $109 million deal with the Philadelphia 76ers, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.
Five-time All-Star F/C Al Horford has agreed to a four-year, $109M deal with the Philadelphia 76ers, agent Jason Glushon tells ESPN.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 1, 2019
Horford played three seasons with the Celtics, averaging 13.5 points, 7 rebounds, and 4.6 assists in 208 games.
The 33-year-old joins a Sixers frontcourt that already includes All-Star center Joel Embiid. Philly is also keeping forward Tobias Harris on a five-year, $180 million deal, and reportedly working with agent Rich Paul on a contract extension for guard Ben Simmons. Adding to a very busy, franchise-altering day for the 76ers, they’re also sending Jimmy Butler to the Miami Heat in a sign-and-trade that will send Josh Richardson to Philadelphia.
So the Sixers are currently looking at a starting five of Simmons, Richardson, Harris, Horford, and Embiid. That should easily make them a top contender in the Eastern Conference once again. And at the same time, they keep Horford from potentially returning to the Celtics, who now have to look elsewhere for a big man.
Matt Dolloff is a digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Have a news tip, question, or comment for Matt? Follow him on Twitter @mattdolloff or email him at matthew.dolloff@bbgi.com.