As the Lakers continue looking for centers in the free agent market, Al Horford has reportedly emerged as a potential option
The Lakers are in desperate need of acquiring a center this summer. While they have yet to add any frontcourt depth in free agency, a couple of players appear to be in the running for a spot on L.A.’s roster.
Deandre Ayton is a name that’s been connected to the purple and gold after he was bought out from Portland. With Ayton allegedly wanting to be in a “winning situation” him being a Laker and playing well seems like a scenario that would be beneficial for both sides.
However, they aren’t focused solely on Ayton as Al Horford is the newest name linked to Los Angeles. Sam Amick and Dan Woike of The Athletic are both reporting that Horford is a player the Lakers are considering.
Sources tell me and @DanWoikeSports that Al Horford is also under serious consideration by the Lakers (in addition to the Warriors). As he says below, this might take some time. https://t.co/kwyL21qduv
— Sam Amick (@sam_amick) July 1, 2025
Horford is an 18-year NBA veteran, but despite his time in the league, he is still a very valuable player.
He has evolved with the game and was a very crucial aspect to Boston’s 2024 title run and overall team success during the past seven years.
Last season, he played in 60 games and averaged 9 points and 6.8 rebounds per game. Given his age, he is far from the vertical lob threat that Luka Dončić seems to work well with.
However, he is a good floor spacer, shoots 36% from 3-point range and, with his basketball IQ, he can mitigate some of his defensive challenges with his knowledge of the game.
Horford is a winner, a consummate professional and, most importantly, would be an upgrade at the center position for the Lakers.
Again, nothing is confirmed, and other teams such as the Golden State Warriors will also be interested in Horford. So it’s not just a matter of if the Lakers want him, but if they can present a more compelling offer than the rest of the market.
Still, the Lakers will have to push for someone here, be it Horford, Ayton, both, or someone we haven’t even discussed.
This decision will be a significant one as the Lakers aim to improve in an ever-evolving, always challenging Western Conference.
Free agency always has twists and turns and until the dust settles, we never know how things will end. Suddenly, it seems like Horford going from the Celtics to their biggest rival, the Lakers, is a possibility.
You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88 or on Bluesky at @ecreates88.bsky.social.