Boston Celtics center Al Horford will opt out of the remaining $30.1 million of his player option for the 2019-20 season, becoming an unrestricted free agent, according to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski. Horford and the Celtics have interest in working toward a new deal.

At 33 years old, the big man is looking to trade a big payday for some long-term financial security, a deal that could allow him to retire as a Celtics player whenever he chooses to hang them up.

Horford played the least amount of minutes per game (29.0) of his 12-year career, likely a result of his aging legs. Having played all 82 games in his last season with the Atlanta Hawks in 2015-16, he has since played in only 68, 72, and 68 with the Celtics green.

The Celtics will need to cut salary to allow for the signing of free agents, and even potentially a big haul in a trade, making this move necessary to maintain financial flexibility.

Though allowing Horford to hit restricted free agency comes as a risky proposition, as other suitors might be in line for his services as a dependable rim protector and capable scorer from all three levels of the hardwood.

The Celtics expected Horford to opt out of his contract, but as ESPN's Zach Lowe noted, the uncertainty around Kyrie Irving's free agency decision and the overall shape of the roster that might stem from it could bring Horford to different pastures.

There are plenty of teams looking for a rangy big man like Horford, so it remains to be seen if Boston can convince him to re-sign and make the most of that mutual interest after three years donning the Celtics' uniform.