Veteran NBA big man Al Horford is at a career crossroads, and the Golden State Warriors are caught in the middle. As the 39-year-old five-time All-Star considers retirement, his potential signing with the Warriors remains in limbo, held up by the unresolved contract situation of forward Jonathan Kuminga.
According to multiple reports, including ESPN’s Anthony Slater, Horford is “comfortable waiting” while Golden State sorts out its negotiations with Kuminga. The Warriors reportedly view Horford as a key piece for the upcoming season, especially after losing Kevon Looney to the New Orlando Pelicans and facing a lack of depth in the frontcourt.
If signed, Horford would likely become the team’s starting center, allowing Draymond Green to shift away from heavy minutes at the five spot, a strategic priority for head coach Steve Kerr.
Horford, who averaged 9.0 points and 6.2 rebounds last season with the Boston Celtics, remains one of the league’s most effective stretch bigs. His ability to space the floor, defend multiple positions, and provide veteran leadership makes him an ideal fit for Golden State’s system. However, his age and durability have raised questions about how much he can contribute over an 82-game season.
The holdup centers on Kuminga’s restricted free agency. His camp reportedly proposed a three-year, $82 million deal, while the Warriors countered with a two-year, $45 million offer. Kuminga has yet to accept either, and his $22.9 million cap hold is limiting the team’s flexibility to finalize other moves, including Horford’s signing.
Sources close to the situation suggest that the Warriors are operating as if Horford will eventually join the roster, but retirement remains a real possibility. If Horford decides to walk away from the game, Golden State could be left scrambling for a backup plan in a market with few comparable options.
The Warriors’ offseason has been unusually quiet, and the Kuminga-Horford saga is emblematic of the delicate balancing act they face: managing young talent, preserving cap space, and building a veteran core around Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Jimmy Butler.
Whether Horford suits up in blue and gold or calls it a career, his decision will have ripple effects across the Warriors’ roster and their championship aspirations.
