Just In: Al Horford Set to Join Warriors as Starting Center Pending Kuminga Resolution

On September 16, 2025, NBA insider Evan Sidery reported that veteran center Al Horford plans to sign with the Golden State Warriors to become their starting center, a move contingent on resolving restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga’s contract stalemate. This blockbuster development has sparked widespread excitement among Warriors fans, who see Horford as a key piece in their championship puzzle for the 2025-26 season. However, the signing remains on hold until the Warriors finalize their roster construction, with Kuminga’s situation serving as the critical domino. Horford, fresh off a 2024 NBA championship with the Boston Celtics, brings elite versatility, experience, and leadership to a Warriors team aiming to reclaim their place atop the NBA. This article explores the significance of Horford’s impending signing, its implications for the Warriors’ roster, fan reactions, and the challenges ahead as the team navigates this pivotal offseason.

The Context of Horford’s Pending Signing

The Golden State Warriors have faced a complex offseason, with their roster moves largely stalled due to ongoing negotiations surrounding Jonathan Kuminga’s restricted free agency. Kuminga, a rising star who averaged 16.1 points and 4.8 rebounds in the 2024-25 season, is seeking a lucrative extension, with projections suggesting a deal worth up to $7.9 million for the 2025-26 season. The Warriors, operating under the NBA’s luxury tax constraints, have been unable to finalize deals with free agents like Horford until Kuminga’s situation is resolved—either through a new contract or a potential sign-and-trade. This delay has left Golden State with only nine players under contract, heightening anticipation for roster updates.

Al Horford’s verbal commitment to join the Warriors, as reported by Sidery, marks a significant step toward addressing a glaring need in the frontcourt. The Warriors lost Kevon Looney to the New Orleans Pelicans in June 2025, leaving Trayce Jackson-Davis and rookie Quinten Post as their primary center options. While both players show promise, neither offers the veteran presence or versatility required to compete against the Western Conference’s elite bigs. Horford, a 39-year-old five-time All-Star, brings a championship pedigree and a skill set tailor-made for Golden State’s system, making his signing a potential game-changer.

Why Al Horford is the Ideal Fit for Golden State

Horford’s decision to join the Warriors aligns perfectly with their needs, both on and off the court. His unique combination of floor-spacing, defensive versatility, and leadership makes him an ideal fit for Steve Kerr’s motion offense and the Warriors’ championship aspirations. Below, we break down the key reasons why Horford is poised to make a significant impact in Golden State.

Floor-Spacing and Offensive Versatility

Horford is one of only four active NBA players with over 1,000 blocks and 750 three-pointers, a rare combination that highlights his ability to impact both ends of the floor. In the 2024-25 season with Boston, Horford shot 36.3% from three-point range, including an impressive 41.9% during the Celtics’ championship run. His ability to stretch the floor will create space for Stephen Curry’s off-ball movement and Jimmy Butler’s drives, enhancing the Warriors’ already potent offense. Horford’s high basketball IQ and passing ability—averaging 2.6 assists per game last season—further complement Kerr’s system, which relies on quick decision-making and ball movement.

In Golden State’s motion offense, Horford can serve as a hub at the top of the key, facilitating plays while also knocking down open threes. His presence will force opposing centers to defend away from the paint, opening driving lanes for Curry, Butler, and Buddy Hield. This dynamic fits seamlessly with the Warriors’ identity, which has thrived on spacing and versatility since their 2015 championship.

Defensive Anchor

The Warriors’ frontcourt defense has been a weak point in recent seasons, particularly against dominant bigs like Nikola Jokić and Anthony Davis. Horford’s defensive acumen addresses this issue head-on. With over 1,000 career blocks, he remains a reliable rim protector, averaging 0.9 blocks per game in 2024-25. His ability to switch onto smaller players and hold his own in the paint provides the Warriors with much-needed flexibility. Unlike Trayce Jackson-Davis, who struggled against bigger opponents in the 2025 playoffs, Horford can anchor the defense while allowing Draymond Green to roam as a help defender.

Horford’s playoff experience, including his role in slowing down Joel Embiid and Giannis Antetokounmpo during Boston’s 2024 postseason, will be invaluable against the Western Conference’s top frontcourts. His veteran savvy ensures that the Warriors can compete in high-stakes matchups, particularly in the postseason.

Championship Experience and Leadership

At 39, Horford brings a wealth of experience to a Warriors roster that blends veterans and young talent. His role in Boston’s 2024 championship run, where he served as a steadying force alongside Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, demonstrates his ability to perform under pressure. Horford’s leadership will be critical in guiding younger players like Kuminga, Moses Moody, and Brandin Podziemski through the rigors of a championship chase. His professionalism and work ethic, praised by coaches like Brad Stevens and Joe Mazzulla, make him a natural fit for the Warriors’ culture of accountability and teamwork.

The Kuminga Domino and Roster Implications

The primary obstacle to finalizing Horford’s signing is the ongoing stalemate with Jonathan Kuminga. The Warriors are reportedly exploring both a long-term extension and sign-and-trade options for Kuminga, with teams like the Philadelphia 76ers and Miami Heat expressing interest. A sign-and-trade could bring additional assets to Golden State, potentially allowing them to sign Horford and another free agent, such as De’Anthony Melton or Gary Payton II, to bolster their backcourt depth.

Horford is expected to sign a two-year, $11.7 million contract using the taxpayer mid-level exception, with a player option for the 2026-27 season. This structure provides flexibility for both Horford and the Warriors, as it allows him to retire or continue playing based on his performance and health. The Warriors’ ability to stay below the second luxury tax apron hinges on resolving Kuminga’s contract, as exceeding the apron would limit their roster-building options.

Once signed, Horford is projected to slot into the starting lineup alongside Curry, Hield, Butler, and Green, creating a versatile and experienced unit. This lineup combines elite shooting, playmaking, and defensive flexibility, positioning the Warriors as a top contender in the Western Conference. The addition of Horford reduces the need to pursue other veteran bigs like Trey Lyles or Chris Boucher, allowing the Warriors to focus on addressing secondary needs, such as wing depth or a backup point guard.

Fan Reactions: A Wave of Excitement

Warriors fans have taken to X to express their enthusiasm for Horford’s impending signing, viewing it as a critical step toward another championship. One fan posted, “Al Horford as our starting center? That’s a championship move! His shooting and defense are perfect for Steph and Jimmy.” Another wrote, “Once Kuminga’s deal is done, Horford’s gonna make us unstoppable. Let’s go, Dubs!” These reactions reflect the fanbase’s belief that Horford’s addition could elevate the Warriors back to the NBA’s elite.

However, some fans remain cautious due to Horford’s age and the uncertainty surrounding Kuminga. One X user commented, “Horford’s a great pickup, but at 39, can he stay healthy for a full season? And what’s taking so long with Kuminga?” Others expressed frustration over the delay, with one fan noting, “Just sign Horford already! Kuminga’s holding up everything.” Despite these concerns, the overwhelming sentiment is one of optimism, with fans eager to see Horford in a Warriors uniform.

Challenges and Expectations for Horford

Horford’s transition to the Warriors will not be without challenges. At 39, his durability is a concern, as he has not played more than 70 games in a season since 2017-18. Steve Kerr will likely manage Horford’s minutes carefully, using him as a situational starter and resting him during back-to-backs to ensure he’s fresh for the playoffs. Trayce Jackson-Davis and Quinten Post will provide depth at center, reducing the pressure on Horford to play heavy minutes.

Integrating Horford into the Warriors’ fast-paced system will also require an adjustment period. While his skill set aligns with Kerr’s philosophy, syncing with Curry and Butler’s dynamic playstyles will take time. Additionally, Horford’s ability to mentor younger players while maintaining his on-court performance will be critical to the team’s success.

The resolution of Kuminga’s situation remains the biggest hurdle. If the Warriors trade Kuminga, they could acquire additional assets to complement Horford, but losing a young talent like Kuminga could impact long-term roster flexibility. Conversely, signing Kuminga to an extension would solidify the core but limit the Warriors’ ability to add other free agents.

The Warriors’ Championship Outlook

With Horford set to join the roster, the Warriors are poised to be a top contender in the 2025-26 season. Their projected starting lineup—Curry, Hield, Butler, Green, and Horford—combines elite shooting, defensive versatility, and playoff experience. This group has the potential to challenge teams like the Denver Nuggets, Los Angeles Lakers, and Phoenix Suns, who boast formidable frontcourts. Horford’s ability to stretch the floor and protect the rim will be key in matchups against Jokić, Davis, and Kevin Durant.

The Warriors’ ultimate goal is a fifth championship in the Curry era, and Horford’s addition brings them closer to that target. His experience in the 2024 Finals, where he played a pivotal role for Boston, will guide the Warriors through the postseason gauntlet. If Curry continues his MVP-caliber play and Butler maintains his two-way dominance, Horford could be the final piece needed to push Golden State over the top.

 A Transformative Move for Golden State

Al Horford’s plan to sign with the Golden State Warriors as their starting center, pending the resolution of Jonathan Kuminga’s restricted free agency, is a transformative development for the franchise. His floor-spacing, defensive versatility, and championship experience address critical needs, positioning the Warriors as serious contenders for the 2025-26 NBA title. While challenges remain—namely Kuminga’s contract and Horford’s age—the excitement surrounding this move is palpable. Warriors fans are eagerly awaiting the finalization of Horford’s deal, ready to welcome the veteran big man to the Bay Area. As the offseason unfolds, Golden State’s front office will work to resolve the Kuminga stalemate and unlock the full potential of this championship-caliber roster.