If there is one missing piece to the newly rebuilt Atlanta Hawks, it is additional size off the bench. The team has done an incredible job adding wing defenders and shooters to play around Trae Young. Adding in, Kristaps Porzingis went a long way in solving size concerns after losing Clint Capela to the Houston Rockets. Still, it would be ideal to bring in one more established center, and the perfect target remains a free agent. Al Horford began his career with the Hawks as a franchise star and calming presence.
Since leaving the Hawks, it has been an up-and-down journey that resulted in the veteran becoming a key contributor for Boston's 2024 NBA Championship. There are many teams that would love to add the veteran if he wants to continue playing. Even at this late stage of his career, Horford brings value as a scorer and defender in short windows. While the elite player Horford was in Atlanta is long gone, there is still immense value to be had if the Hawks are able to land the veteran as the final piece of this year's rebuild.
Al Horford Returning to the Hawks Would Complete an Incredible Offseason
While the Hawks are going to be far from alone in their attempts to keep Horford from retiring, it is worth trying. Atlanta does have the advantage of being where Horford began his career, and they have a familiar face on the roster in Kristaps Porzingis. The two won a championship together in Boston and have proven to play well together. All of this adds up to the Hawks needing to approach the veteran with a sense of urgency.
Bringing in Horford along with the team's past offseason moves truly establishes the Hawks as real Eastern Conference contenders. There is no debating whether or not Atlanta belongs in the conversation with the top teams in the conference. A big piece of this is due to the fact that both the Celtics and Pacers will be without their best players for the 2025-26 season.
All of that sets the stage for a surprise run from one of last year's fringe contenders. With the offseason additions and return of a healthy Jalen Johnson, the Hawks cannot be counted out as currently constructed. Adding the leadership and experience of Horford only furthers this and would be at a relatively low cost if the veteran is willing to return for another season.