NBA Trade Rumors: Golden State Warriors predicted to land $20 million Boston Celtics center to support Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler and improve title odds | NBA News
The Golden State Warriors are aggressively planning to strengthen their roster for the 2025-26 season, with veteran center Al Horford emerging as a top target. The 5-time All-Star and NBA champion could bring championship experience and versatility to a Warriors squad aiming to compete in a stacked Western Conference.
Why Al Horford Fits the Golden State Warriors’ Needs
Golden State Warriors’ front office, led by GM Mike Dunleavy, is prioritizing a stretch center to complement Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green. Horford, despite being 39, remains a reliable two-way player who can space the floor and defend at a high level. According to The Athletic’s Anthony Slater: “Team sources have identified a stretch center as a high priority. Many in the league continue to link Al Horford to the Warriors as a preferred target.” (H/t: Sporting News)
Horford’s Recent Performance
Al Horford (Image via Getty)
Here’s a quick breakdown of his 2024-25 stats with the Celtics:
| Stat Category | Average |
| Points per game | 9.0 |
| Rebounds per game | 6.2 |
| 3-point percentage | 36.3% |
| Defensive rating | 111 |
| Defensive box plus-minus | 1.1 |
Horford’s ability to knock down threes and defend the paint makes him an ideal fit alongside Curry in pick-and-pop situations. His experience as a former All-Defensive selection (2018) also pairs well with Draymond Green, forming a formidable defensive frontcourt.
Financial Considerations
The Golden State Warriors face salary cap challenges but could use the taxpayer midlevel exception (projected at $5.7 million) to sign Horford. However, this move would hard-cap them at the second apron ($207.8 million). Key points on the financial side: – Horford is an unrestricted free agent. – Boston may let him walk to cut costs after their 2024 title run. – Golden State must balance luxury tax implications with roster needs.
What Horford Brings to Golden State
– Championship Pedigree: Fresh off a title with the Celtics, Horford understands winning at the highest level. – Floor Spacing: His 36% three-point shooting opens driving lanes for Curry and Butler. – Defensive IQ: Despite his age, he remains an elite team defender and communicator. As Dean Simon noted in the original report, Al Horford’s durability and leadership could make this a low-risk, high-reward signing for the Warriors.Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Milwaukee Bucks might hit home with $109,000,002 Golden State Warriors legend to support Giannis and improve title oddsWhile age is a factor, Horford’s skill set and experience align perfectly with Golden State’s win-now approach. If the financials work, this move could solidify the Warriors as legitimate contenders next season.
