Warriors bring back Al Horford; Thunder part with Joe and Wiggins; Isaiah Thomas joins Celtics’ draft room
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San Francisco, Oklahoma City and Boston — The NBA’s offseason shuffle continued on several fronts Wednesday, with the Golden State Warriors re-signing veteran center Al Horford, the Oklahoma City Thunder moving on from guards Isaiah Joe and Aaron Wiggins, and the Boston Celtics welcoming Isaiah Thomas to their scouting staff.
Warriors bet on 40-year-old Horford
Golden State reached a two-year, $14 million agreement with Horford after the five-time All-Star declined his player option. If he appears next season, Horford would become the first player in Warriors history to suit up at age 40. Team officials view his experience, leadership and positional versatility as stabilizing forces for a frontcourt that is simultaneously pursuing younger, more athletic help.
Thunder trim payroll, roster spots
Oklahoma City opted to let Joe and Wiggins go in a cost-saving move that could cut an estimated $140 million in future luxury-tax penalties. The pair were set to earn a combined $20.35 million in 2024-25. General manager Sam Presti called the decision “necessary” for long-term financial flexibility and to clear space for the franchise’s incoming draft class.
“Those guys have been great contributors to our team and community, and they’re a big part of what we have accomplished,” Presti said. “I’m going to miss them personally and professionally, but I know they will do great things with their new teams.”
Isaiah Thomas takes on scouting duties in Boston
Former Celtics star Isaiah Thomas, hired in May as a scouting consultant, played an active role in Boston’s draft preparation. The 35-year-old capped the process by announcing the selection of forward Dillon Mitchell with the 40th overall pick, a symbolic first task in his post-playing career.
Source: Hoops Wire
