All offseason long, the Golden State Warriors have been connected to a likely deal with veteran free agent center Al Horford. While the deal has taken a long time to get done, it has finally happened.
According to a report from ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania, the Warriors have agreed to a multi-year contract with Horford.
“BREAKING: Free agent Al Horford has committed to a multi-year deal with the Golden State Warriors, agent Jason Glushon tells ESPN,” Charania wrote on X. “After seven of the past nine years in Boston and winning the 2024 title, Horford will enter his 19th NBA season as the Warriors’ starting center.”
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One of the biggest needs heading into the offseason for Golden State came at the center position. Horford will fix that issue and be a huge upgrade over what the team had last season.
At 39 years old, Horford will provide excellent stability for the Warriors at center. He can still score the basketball both inside and outside. Horford is also still an elite presence defensively and can protect the rim at a high level.
Last season with the Boston Celtics, Horford played in 60 games and made 42 starts. He averaged nine points per game to go along with 6.2 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 0.9 blocks. In addition, he shot 42.3 percent from the floor and 36.3 percent from three-point range.
Horford will be a big-time addition to support Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler. He’s no longer an elite offensive threat, but his ability to catch and shoot from the three-point line will fit Golden State’s offense perfectly.
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Being able to rebound and defend the rim was also a major need for the Warriors. Horford can do both of those things at a high level, although the team will need to make sure that he stays fresh due to his age.
Finally, the concerns can be put to rest for the Warriors about their center needs. Horford is officially onboard and might be with the team past the 2025-26 NBA season as well. It will be interesting to see what he has left in the tank to offer Golden State.
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