The Golden State Warriors have failed to make any significant offseason moves while trying to navigate a realistic path forward with restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga.
Although the Warriors are widely expected to sign veteran center Al Horford, they have held off due to ongoing talks with Kuminga. The 39-year-old Horford has remained productive in the latter stages of his career, and he’ll likely hope to aid the Warriors in a deep playoff run after winning a ring with the Celtics in 2024.
However, if the Warriors take too long to resolve the Kuminga situation, Horford may end up retiring and leaving them with one less option at center, according to Anthony Slater of ESPN.
“Retirement remains on the table, sources said, though the Warriors appear to be operating as if he is a firm part of their plan next season,” Slater wrote.
MORE: NBA insider provides update amid Jonathan Kuminga's contract standoff
Horford has been linked to Golden State all summer, but if the team continues to keep him in a holding pattern, he could ultimately decide to retire.
If the former No. 3 overall pick in the 2007 NBA Draft hangs it up, the Warriors would be left with Draymond Green, Quinten Post and Trayce Jackson-Davis at the five. While these are still serviceable options, Post may not be ready to operate as a starting-caliber center on a contending team, leaving an undersized and aging Green to operate fully at the five.
Additionally, Horford is a proven winner and a strong veteran presence, so not having him around in the postseason could make a significant difference for a Warriors team aiming to maximize the remainder of Stephen Curry's career.
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