The Golden State Warriors are expected to add a familiar name to their roster as they prepare for another title run. Reports suggest that veteran forward-center Al Horford is close to joining the franchise, leaving behind the Boston Celtics in the wake of Jayson Tatum’s season-ending Achilles injury.
At 39 years old, Horford remains one of the most respected veterans in the league, combining experience, leadership, and a reputation for smart play. His move comes as Boston initiates a wide-ranging roster overhaul and Golden State looks for pieces to complement Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green. The deal, however, is not yet complete as the Warriors continue to navigate Jonathan Kuminga’s contract situation.
Boston’s Overhaul in the Wake of Tatum’s Setback
The Celtics’ offseason has been anything but quiet following Tatum’s devastating injury in the 2025 Eastern Conference semifinals. Facing a season derailed by the loss of their superstar, Boston has shifted toward restructuring:
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Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis were traded in June
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Luke Kornet signed with the San Antonio Spurs during free agency
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Al Horford now appears to be on his way out
While Horford’s departure might sting emotionally for Celtics fans, it has long been expected. His second stint with the team spanned seven seasons, but with time running out on his career, the chance to chase another championship was always going to weigh heavily. Beloved in Boston, Horford now turns his attention to the Western Conference.
Golden State’s Calculated Patience
The Warriors have not made a splashy offseason move, but their strategy has been deliberate. The franchise’s priority has centered on Jonathan Kuminga’s restricted free agency, which has delayed the completion of Horford’s two-year agreement. NBA reporter Brett Siegel explained that Golden State already has verbal commitments in place but must wait until financial details are sorted before Horford can officially sign.
Despite the delay, the Warriors remain confident that the agreement will stand. The addition of Horford signals their desire to surround Curry with veteran talent while reinforcing the frontcourt.
What Horford Still Offers
Even in his late thirties, Horford continues to deliver on the court. Last season, he played 60 games, averaging 9.0 points, 6.2 rebounds, and nearly 28 minutes per contest while shooting 36.3 percent from beyond the arc. His role as a stretch big adds critical floor-spacing, while his defensive instincts give Golden State options when paired with Draymond Green.
Expected Contributions in Golden State
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Providing steady leadership for a championship-focused roster
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Maintaining spacing with reliable three-point shooting
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Offering defensive versatility in key matchups
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Drawing on more than 15 years of professional experience
Horford, the third overall pick in the 2007 NBA Draft, claimed his first NBA title with Boston in 2022. A potential move to Golden State offers him the chance to add to that achievement alongside Curry, Butler, and Green.
The End of One Era, the Continuation of Another
For Boston, Horford’s exit marks the close of a chapter defined by leadership and consistency. For Golden State, his arrival represents the continuation of a championship pursuit powered by veterans and stars alike.
If the agreement is finalized, the Warriors will have secured a reliable presence capable of balancing youthful energy with seasoned composure, strengthening their bid for another deep playoff run.
