Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr and general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. have made their stance crystal clear: they are aggressively pursuing the return of veteran center Al Horford for next season, placing the pivotal decision squarely in the 39-year-old’s hands as free agency looms.
Speaking during Friday’s press conference following Steve Kerr’s new two-year contract extension, both Kerr and Dunleavy expressed strong interest in retaining Horford, who holds a player option for the 2026-27 season on the two-year, $11.7 million deal he signed last summer.
“You know, Al has an option,” Dunleavy said. “I think frankly his option is two-fold: One, do you want to keep playing? Two, do you want to be back with the Warriors?”
Kerr was equally direct and optimistic. “I had an exit meeting with Al a couple of days after the season ended. Obviously, we want him back. It’s his option with the player option. I know he really enjoys it here. I know his family loves it here. I’m hoping he’s back.”
The comments represent a significant public commitment from the Warriors front office and coaching staff. At a time when the roster requires careful construction around Stephen Curry and a core of veterans, Horford’s experience, floor spacing, and defensive versatility offer unique value — particularly in a Western Conference that continues to demand frontcourt depth and playoff toughness.
A Season of Impact, Marred by Injury
Horford delivered a solid first campaign in the Bay Area despite appearing in just 45 regular-season games due to injuries. He averaged 8.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.1 blocks per game while providing reliable rim protection and veteran leadership. His standout performance came in the NBA Play-In Tournament against the Los Angeles Clippers, delivering a memorable showing that underscored his ability to elevate in high-stakes moments.
Now turning 40 on June 3, Horford stands on the cusp of his 20th NBA season. During his exit interview, he emphasized a measured approach to his future.
“It has to do with not rushing to anything or not let emotions or heat of the moment determine anything,” Horford explained. “I’ve done this the last few years, and it’s just kind of taken time to step back and have a clear picture, look at the outlook of the team, looking at the future of the team, how things look, and also seeing kind of where I’m at and how I’m feeling.”
He added that he thoroughly enjoyed his time with the Warriors, citing the professional environment and the presence of like-minded veterans such as Steph Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green.
Bigger Big-Man Picture
Horford is not the only veteran frontcourt piece on the Warriors’ radar. The team also remains interested in retaining Kristaps Porzingis, who was acquired from the Atlanta Hawks at the trade deadline in exchange for Jonathan Kuminga and Buddy Hield. Porzingis appeared in just 15 regular-season games due to a lingering respiratory illness but posted strong numbers when healthy: 16.1 points, 5.3 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.1 blocks.
With several players potentially heading into free agency, the Warriors’ public endorsement of Horford signals a clear preference for continuity and championship-proven experience over younger, unproven alternatives. Bringing back the veteran big man would provide stability, mentorship, and a trusted rotation piece as Golden State looks to maximize its remaining contention window.
The ball is now in Horford’s court. A decision to opt in — or to decline and re-sign on new terms — could significantly shape the Warriors’ offseason strategy and roster outlook heading into next season.
For now, the message from the Bay Area is unmistakable: Al Horford remains a high priority for Golden State.