The Golden State Warriors are the only team yet to make a major move this NBA offseason. That could soon change, as reports indicate the franchise has reached a verbal agreement with a veteran free agent to join Stephen Curry in Golden State.
NBA insider Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson reports that the player in question is Al Horford, who spent the past several seasons with the Boston Celtics. According to Robinson, Horford has a verbal agreement in place to become the Warriors’ newest addition.
The Los Angeles Lakers were previously linked to Horford earlier in the offseason. However, after acquiring Deandre Ayton from the Portland Trail Blazers and signing Jaxson Hayes to a one-year deal, the Lakers appear to be out of the race.
For the Warriors, Horford’s arrival still depends on how the team resolves Jonathan Kuminga’s contract situation. The 22-year-old forward is reportedly seeking a $30 million per year extension—well above what Golden State is willing to offer. The front office, however, doesn’t want to part with him for less than his full market value.
Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors is defended by Al Horford #42 of the Boston Celtics during the 2022 NBA Finals. (Elsa/Getty Images)
Kuminga’s unresolved status has delayed other offseason moves due to salary cap constraints under the NBA’s new Collective Bargaining Agreement. “Until Kuminga’s situation is figured out, the Warriors can’t make any other moves since his contract will push them close to the first apron,” Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints reported.
see also
Stephen Curry gets real about Warriors’ chances of winning an NBA title with Butler and Green
Curry wants Gary Payton II back
Robinson also noted that Curry is lobbying the front office to bring back defensive specialist Gary Payton II. “I’m told Curry has been in direct contact with Gary Payton II, pushing for the Warriors to bring the defensive ace back on a two-year deal,” Robinson reported.
Payton has been with Golden State since 2021 and played a pivotal role in their 2022 championship run. Last season, he averaged 6.5 points, 3.0 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 0.8 steals, and 0.3 blocks per game. After the All-Star break, he posted his best scoring stretch, averaging 9.1 points per game.
In addition to Horford and Payton, the Warriors have also been linked to free-agent guard De’Anthony Melton, according to NBA insider Jake Weinbach. This would mark Melton’s second stint with Golden State. His first was cut short after just six games due to a season-ending ACL sprain, which led to a trade to the Brooklyn Nets—where he never appeared in a game.
