Even with the NBA season still in a hiatus, Al Horford’s name continues to be brought up in trade discussions. In the latest rumor (initially reported on by Justin Grasso of Sports Illustrated), former NBA executive John Hollinger suggested Al Horford be moved for Harrison Barnes of the Sacramento Kings.
After playing a crucial role during the Golden State Warriors’ championship run of 2015, Barnes cashed out on the open market. He signed a four-year/$94 million deal with the Dallas Mavericks in the offseason, with the expectation that he would be the organization’s franchise star moving forward.
While he did average over 18 points per game across two and a half seasons with Dallas, the Mavericks opted to trade him last season as they geared up to build their team around Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis instead.
Following the conclusion of the 2018-19 season, Barnes and the Kings agreed upon a new contract worth $85 million over four years. Despite seeing his production drop in Sacramento following the trade, the Kings appeared to like what they had in Barnes.
A year later and Barnes is showing no signs of turning into a player worth that type of money. With another $60+ million left on his current deal, the Kings would likely jump at the opportunity to offload him if the deal is right.
Barnes’ play has declined in recent years but he is still an overall solid player. He’s averaged just over 14 points per game the last two seasons, with his 3P% rising up to 39.1%. For a team as desperate for shooting as the SIxers, this would be an immediate upgrade.
The Kings expressed interest in Al Horford during free agency last offseason, so the interest is there. However, they would likely demand some sort of extra compensation to take on his contract considering his play this season. The Sixers including a few picks would likely make this agreement a “win” for both sides.
Mandatory Credit: Quinn Harris-USA TODAY Sports
