The Golden State Warriors have emerged as the favorite to sign five-time NBA All-Star Al Horford, according to multiple reports. The move would address a critical need at center after losing three-time champion Kevon Looney to the New Orleans Pelicans in free agency.
This NBA offseason has delivered several unexpected moves across the Western Conference. The Minnesota Timberwolves chose to keep their core intact by re-signing Julius Randle and Naz Reid, while other teams made surprising additions.
The Dallas Mavericks were the only team whose offseason went exactly as predicted. They secured a generational talent by drafting Cooper Flagg with the No. 1 pick. Beyond these moves, Steve Kerr’s Warriors had remained quiet until recent reports suggested Horford is widely expected to join forces with Stephen Curry.
Warriors Target Veteran Center AL Horford to Fill Roster Gap
After finishing the 2024-25 season with a 48-34 record, the Golden State Warriors face pressure to build a competitive roster this offseason. That urgency feels even more valid because their veteran stars are set to become free agents after the 2026-27 campaign.
The front office is already making plans for who could eventually replace Curry and Draymond Green.
While Curry has repeatedly said he wants to retire as a Warrior, the team still needs to prepare for the future after their core duo. Golden State is reportedly exploring every available option to remain competitive and push for another deep playoff run.
One of their biggest roster questions involves restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga. But while that situation plays out, general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. is also considering veteran free agents who can make an impact immediately.
According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Warriors have a position and a player in mind, reporting, “All signs, for the record, continue to point to Al Horford landing with Golden State … eventually. Sunday will be the first day of the 2025-26 salary cap year that NBA teams can make most free agent signings and trades official.”
All signs point to Al Horford signing with the Golden State Warriors, per @TheSteinLine
“All signs, for the record, continue to point to Al Horford landing with Golden State … eventually. Sunday will be the first day of the 2025-26 salary cap year that NBA teams can make most… pic.twitter.com/1WrOj7CAXq
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) July 4, 2025
Horford Brings Championship Experience, Versatility to The Bay
After losing Looney to the Pelicans in free agency, the Warriors have a clear hole at center. Horford’s defensive versatility, floor spacing, and leadership would perfectly complement the Warriors’ veteran core. The 39-year-old brings championship experience after winning the NBA title with the Boston Celtics in 2024.
Last season, Horford averaged 9.0 points and 6.2 rebounds while shooting 36.3% from three-point range. Those numbers demonstrate his ability to contribute on both ends of the floor while providing the spacing that fits Golden State’s system.
wake up babe, new highlights from The Al Horford Game just dropped: pic.twitter.com/adAPFCHuyD
— Tomek Kordylewski (@Timi_093) May 16, 2024
The timing works well for both sides. Horford offers immediate help for a Warriors team looking to maximize their championship window with Curry and Green. Meanwhile, the veteran center gets another chance to compete for a title with one of the league’s most successful franchises.
The Warriors are reportedly waiting to finalize Horford’s signing until they resolve the situation with restricted free agent Kuminga. Once that’s settled, the 39-year-old is expected to sign a short-term deal, likely at a veteran-friendly rate.
This potential addition represents Golden State’s commitment to staying competitive in the loaded Western Conference. With Horford anchoring the center position, the Warriors would have the veteran leadership and playoff experience needed for another championship run.
