As the NBA opens free agency at 6 p.m. Monday, it’s still unclear what Al Horford will do with his career. The Celtics want him for another season, but considering payroll and their status as a contender, it’s not guaranteed the 39-year-old big man will be back in Boston come the 2025-26 season.
If Horford wants to play for a contender and chase a ring at this point in his career, other teams will likely be interested in the productive veteran. Add the Warriors as one such team as NBA insiders Marc Stein and Jake Fischer reported that Horford is a “top target” for Golden State on the open market.
The Warriors first need to address what’s going to happen with Jonathan Kuminga, who’s a restricted free agent. But it doesn’t sound like there will be a resolution there anytime soon. Golden State could use the taxpayer mid-level exception at around $5.7 mllion to sign Horford and bolster its front-court depth.
The Warriors made it to the second round of the playoffs last season, downing the Rockets in seven games in a tough first round. But after Stephen Curry went down with an injury against the Timberwolves, the Warriors couldn’t bounce back. Still, the midseason acquisition of Jimmy Butler gave the Warriors a spark.
It’s no secret Golden State is looking to compete as the organization has shown a willingness to maximize Curry’s career for however long he remains productive. Curry, 37, is still a stellar guard as he was named second-team All-NBA last season. Should Horford want to contribute for a potential contender, the Warriors could be a team that also makes sense from a timeline perspective.
The Celtics made a pair of big moves last week as they traded Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis away to cut salary. While Boston president Brad Stevens said it’s a priority to re-sign both Horford and Luke Kornet, it’s unclear if the Celtics will be able to retain both free agents.