“Why did they call it Chase Center if they ain’t ever chasing no centers…,” via TheWarriorsTalk on X.
The Golden State Warriors are still taking their time to make a move this summer as Jonathan Kuminga remains a restricted free agent.
Recent reports have stated that many free agents have closed a deal with the franchise as soon as Kuminga’s status is finally set. However, there are no guarantees for the 6-foot-7 forward in what direction he is willing to play due to its role complications with his current team.
The highlight so far is pursuing the veteran center Al Horford, but it was delayed because of current negotiations with Kuminga.
Horford was expected to sign a contract worth more than the $5.7 million Mid-Level Exception, which made him a higher salary among his age group, according to Jake Fischer.
“Al Horford’s situation is a bit different because, depending on where the Warriors land in a cap tax situation, I believe he could make upwards of the full taxpayer mid-level ($5.7 million) exception,” Fischer said via recent live stream of Bleacher Report’s “Insider’s Notebook” on Aug. 20. “There’s also discussion of a potential two-year deal with a player option, which would be beneficial for Horford, who was considering retirement following Boston Celtics‘ championship run in 2024.”
Despite no signs until now, the Warriors look forward to obtaining Horford since he was the type of center that the rotation needed, especially in Steve Kerr’s system. He is an elite defender as he can switch to defend multiple positions, and more importantly, he has tremendous experience in his career.
The five-time all-star has been integral for the Boston Celtics, one of the main contributors to their championship in 2024. As a defense wins a championship, they have a legitimate center that defends the paint.
Horford averaged 27.7 minutes, 9 points, 6.2 boards, 2.1 assists, and shot 42.3 percent from the field last season.
