SAN FRANCISCO, CA – Christmas Day is bringing more than just holiday cheer to the Golden State Warriors. In a season marred by injuries and inconsistent play, the Dubs are set to unwrap their most anticipated gift: the return of veteran center Al Horford. After appearing in only 13 games amid load management and a nagging right sciatica nerve issue, the 39-year-old stretch big has been cleared to suit up against the Dallas Mavericks in today’s marquee matchup at Chase Center.
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr confirmed the news during his Christmas Eve media availability, delivering a simple yet electrifying update: “Al [Horford] is likely to play tomorrow.” For a team hovering at .500 with a 15-15 record, Horford’s comeback couldn’t come at a better time. Signed as a key free agent addition this offseason, the six-time All-Star was envisioned as Golden State’s secret weapon – a floor-spacing, defensively savvy center who could elevate their small-ball lineups with championship pedigree and veteran savvy.
But the reality has been far from the blueprint. Plagued by the sciatica issue that sidelined him for the last seven games, plus a strict minutes restriction and a no-back-to-backs policy, Horford’s impact has been muted. In his limited action, he’s averaging just 5.6 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game – numbers that pale in comparison to his storied career. His shooting splits are even more concerning: a career-low 29.8% from beyond the arc and 32.1% from the field. The Warriors, who haven’t had a true spacing big like Horford in recent years, have felt the void keenly.
“Al brings a unique combination of experience, spacing, and defense,” Kerr said earlier this season. “We knew there would be challenges with his age and health, but when he’s out there, he changes the game.”
In Horford’s absence, the Warriors have leaned on emerging talent to fill the gap at center. Second-year big Quinten Post has been a revelation, stepping up as a starter and providing many of the same offensive tools as Horford – namely, his ability to stretch the floor. But it’s Post’s defensive strides that have truly impressed. Leading the team with a +137 plus/minus (surpassing even stars like Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Jimmy Butler) and boasting a +11.9 efficiency differential (93rd percentile league-wide), Post has earned Kerr’s trust.
“I think his defense has gotten a lot better,” Kerr noted earlier this month. “The tape shows it. The numbers show it. We’re more able to switch with him.” Post’s growth has allowed the Warriors to maintain their defensive identity, even without Horford’s rim protection and versatility.
Backing up Post, Trayce Jackson-Davis has provided steady minutes as a traditional backup center, while Gui Santos has emerged as an energy sparkplug off the bench. Kerr’s deep rotation – often going 10 or 11 players deep – has kept the team afloat, but Horford’s return adds another layer of intrigue. Will he reclaim starting duties? Unlikely, given Post’s hot streak and Horford’s expected restrictions. Instead, expect Horford to come off the bench, providing matchup-specific boosts against Dallas’ frontcourt, including stars like Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving’s supporting cast.
The Mavericks, riding high after a strong start to the season, might not be fully prepared for Horford’s sneaky impact. His ability to space the floor could pull Dallas bigs away from the rim, opening driving lanes for Curry and Butler. Defensively, Horford’s IQ and positioning could disrupt the Mavs’ pick-and-roll heavy offense. “Dallas won’t see him coming,” one Warriors insider quipped, highlighting how Horford’s low-key return could be the X-factor in a game projected to be a Western Conference thriller.
For the Warriors, this isn’t just about one game – it’s about salvaging a season. At 15-15, they’re clinging to playoff hopes in a loaded West. If Horford can shake off the rust and deliver even glimpses of his Boston Celtics championship form, he could ignite a turnaround. But with his health history, the Dubs will tread carefully.
As the holiday lights shine on Chase Center, all eyes will be on No. 42. He’s back, and just in time for Golden State to make a statement. Merry Christmas, Warriors fans – your secret weapon is locked and loaded.