One of the most intriguing names linked to the Golden State Warriors this offseason is veteran big man Al Horford. The Warriors have explored bringing him in, but ongoing complications with Jonathan Kumingaās contract situation have temporarily stalled any deal. Still, the Warriors remain interested in adding Horford ahead of the upcoming NBA season.
According to Anthony Slater, Horford is in no rush to join the Warriors, as he has other options on the table. āHorford is comfortable waiting. Retirement remains on the table, sources said, though the Warriors appear to be operating as if he is a firm part of their plan next season.ā
If the deal materializes, Horford would likely become the Warriorsā starting center, reducing the regular-season workload for Draymond Green ā a top priority for the franchise. His passing and defensive versatility would fit seamlessly into the Warriorsā system, and his ability to stretch the floor from the center position is something the Warriors have lacked in recent years.
Financially, Horford represents a low-risk addition. At 39, he is no longer expected to play heavy back-to-back minutes, and the Warriors would not rely on him for 25 minutes every night. Instead, they would aim to have him fresh and available for high-leverage games while creating lineup flexibility ā particularly benefiting downhill attackers like Kuminga.
Al Horford #42 of the Boston Celtics dunks the ball against Jalen Brunson #11 of the New York Knicks during the third quarter in Game One of the Eastern Conference Second Round NBA Playoffs at TD Garden on May 05, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts.
However, the Warriorsā plans for Horford remain intertwined with Kumingaās future. If the long-term vision is to pair Horford with Kuminga to maximize the young forwardās potential, it would make little sense to move on from Kuminga now. That appears to be the balance the front office is trying to strike.
see also
Rocketsā Kevin Durant takes aim at Warriors fans ā and possibly Stephen Curry
Beyond his on-court production, Horford could have a major impact on the Warriorsā locker room. His leadership and professionalism could serve as a valuable example for young centers like Quentin Post and Trayce Jackson-Davis. Learning from a seasoned veteran with championship experience could accelerate their development.
The potential downside is that Post and Jackson-Davis might see reduced minutes if Horford joins. Still, those concerns could be addressed over the course of the season. If the Warriors finalize this deal, they could position themselves as legitimate contenders next year ā blending veteran experience with young talent.
Players such as Buddy Hield, Brandin Podziemski, Post, Jackson-Davis, and potentially Kuminga would be surrounded by some of the eraās most accomplished stars, including Jimmy Butler, Horford (if acquired), Stephen Curry, and Green. That mix of youth and championship pedigree could make the Warriors one of the leagueās most intriguing teams to watch next NBA season.
