The Golden State Warriors brought in veteran big man Al Horford this offseason. Deemed by some as a perfect fit for the Warriors on both sides of the ball, Golden State leadership agrees with that sentiment early in training camp.
Head coach Steve Kerr told The Athletic’s Nick Friedell about Horford’s fit with the team, and the value he brings to the court.
“It’s huge to have, not only a space five, but it’s not just any space five, it’s Al Horford,” Kerr said. “He could play with Draymond (Green), space the floor as a five. He could play with Trayce (Jackson-Davis), and Trayce could be the dive man. We could play two bigs with him. He can also play the five himself. We could have a five-out lineup. So Al’s versatility, and the fact that he fits in any lineup, just makes him hugely valuable right away.”
Horford’s ability to play in any lineup is why he continues to be a valuable asset even at 39-years-old. Last season with the Celtics, Horford averaged 9.0 points and 6.2 rebounds per game in 60 appearances (42 starts). Horford was key to the Celtics’ championship run in 2024, and to their NBA Finals appearance in 2022 — which came against the Warriors.
Now, Horford will join a Warriors team that is looking to make the most out of the end of Stephen Curry’s prime. With only so much time left to secure another title in the Curry era, Golden State is going for it all in 2026.