REPORT: Al Horford Poised to Join Golden State Warriors Amid Kuminga Stalemate โ A New Chapter Begins in the Bay
๐จ Golden State, CA โ August 12, 2025
In a move that could reshape the Warriorsโ veteran core and bolster their frontcourt depth, Al Horford is reportedly preparing to join the Golden State Warriors, with internal operations indicating the team is acting as if the five-time All-Star will be on the roster next season.
This development, first reported by Anthony Slater of The Athletic, suggests that the 38-year-old Horford, who wrapped up last season with the Boston Celtics, is comfortable waiting as the Warriors navigate an unresolved contractual standoff with promising young forward Jonathan Kuminga.
๐ The Kuminga Delay
Sources close to the situation describe the Kuminga-Warriors standoff as a major reason behind the delay in Horfordโs formal signing. Kuminga, entering a crucial year of his rookie-scale deal, is reportedly seeking either a larger role within Steve Kerrโs rotation or a potential trade scenario that grants him more touches and responsibility. The Warriors, meanwhile, are attempting to find the right balance between developing youth and competing for a title with their aging core.
Horfordโs patience has been notable. The veteran big man is said to be โfully committedโ to joining the Warriors but has shown willingness to allow the front office to resolve internal matters before any official announcement. โHeโs not rushing anything. He knows his value and understands the timing,โ one team source noted.
๐ง Veteran IQ Meets Championship DNA
Adding Horford could be a game-changer for Golden Stateโs frontcourt, especially following the departure of Kevon Looney and continued health concerns surrounding Draymond Green. Known for his high basketball IQ, defensive positioning, and leadership, Horford would bring 17 years of experience and a proven ability to stretch the floor from the five spot โ an ideal complement to the Warriorsโ motion-heavy offense.
โHorford fits the Warriorsโ system like a glove,โ said an anonymous Western Conference scout. โHe wonโt demand the ball, can facilitate from the top, and defensively heโs still sharp enough to anchor a second unit or close out games.โ
๐ฅ Championship Aspirations Renewed
If the signing becomes official, this would mark Horfordโs second major move in the Western Conference and a clear indication that Golden State is not ready to rebuild โ but rather, retool around Stephen Curry, who is heading into Year 17 and still playing at an elite level. With Klay Thompsonโs departure now in the rearview mirror, the team is focused on reloading with experienced pieces capable of chasing another ring.
The Warriors have already added veteran shooting guard Malcolm Brogdon and versatile wing Royce OโNeale this offseason, signaling a desire to remain competitive in a stacked Western Conference. The addition of Horford could also create intriguing small-ball lineups featuring Curry, Wiggins, Moody, Green, and Horford โ all capable defenders and high-level passers.
๐ Whatโs Next?
League insiders expect Horfordโs deal โ projected at or near the veteran minimum โ to be finalized as soon as the Kuminga situation is resolved, whether by extension, trade, or some form of clarity on his long-term role.
For now, Horford to the Warriors appears all but inevitable.
If and when the move becomes official, Golden State will be acquiring not just a savvy veteran, but a player who brings calm, composure, and championship hunger โ exactly the kind of presence needed for a team aiming to squeeze one more title run out of the dynasty that has defined the last decade of NBA basketball.
Al Horford is a Warrior. And for the Warriors, the window isnโt closed โ itโs just being rebuilt, one veteran piece at a time. ๐กโซ๐ฅ
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