Although Al Horford has been in a holding pattern while the Warriors sort out the ongoing Jonathan Kuminga situation – and has even given some thought to retiring – Golden State appears to be moving forward as if the 39-year-old veteran will be a key piece of its roster for the 2025/26 season, according to Anthony Slater of ESPN.
The organization’s vision, Slater reports, is to install Horford as the starting center, a move aimed at easing the regular season burden on Draymond Green.
By having Horford handle the bulk of the traditional center duties, the Warriors hope to preserve Green’s energy and health for the stretch run and the playoffs.
However, the plan would require its own balancing act. Given Horford’s age and mileage – entering his 18th NBA season – the Warriors would need to manage his playing time with care to keep him fresh and effective throughout the year.
That likely means limiting back-to-backs, monitoring minute totals, and strategically resting him when necessary.
Free Agent Rumors: Kuminga, Horford, Westbrook, Grimes https://t.co/CaqlI9VHZt pic.twitter.com/MGIfTkxI3P
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) August 11, 2025
