Atlanta Hawks’ Horford keeping options open

Al Horford is enjoying his time with the Atlanta Hawks, but is still open to other possibilities.

The Hawks centre said he realises that other cities could help optimise his off-court appeal, something he will have to take into consideration when he becomes a free agent this off-season.

“Atlanta has the potential for a guy like myself to maximise [the business] part of it,” Horford told Yahoo Sports.

“But obviously there are other cities, bigger cities that are more appealing probably [business and marketing-wise]. The impact would be bigger if that is what you are looking for.”

However, Horford, who is averaging 15.2 points, seven rebounds and three assists per game this season, said he was content in Atlanta and likes the set-up.

“The city itself is a great city,” Horford said.

“People are great. This Hawks’ organisation is moving in the right direction. With the new ownership, with the coach, I really feel good about the future of the Hawks.”

A three-time All-Star, Horford is in the final year of his contract.

The Hawks, who sound intent on keeping Horford, could offer him a max deal of $146million over five years.

“Al is a big part of our program and knows how much we value him,” Hawks president and head coach Mike Budenholzer said.

“Our focus and job remain the same, and that is building the best program possible and establishing a culture that Al and any other player would want to be part of.

“He is the type of player we want to continue building with now and into the future.”