Brad Stevens’ Comments on Celtics Free Agent Bodes Well for Warriors

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Svyato Rovenchuk | Last updated Jul 8, 2025 1:54 PM ET

Al Horford has been the name who the Golden State Warriors have waited patiently for. The veteran center has been linked to the team, and fans everywhere are hoping Horford will provide the needed boost in the frontcourt when his decision comes.

The Warriors are not the only team vying for his services. However, their name has remained consistently near the top of the list of all reports regarding the former NBA champion.

While Horford is contemplating his next move, and potentially weighing retirement , the Warriors received an encouraging update from Boston Celtics executive Brad Stevens. It should be music to the ears of the Bay Area.

Celtics reporter Bobby Manning got an opportunity to sit in on a press conference for Stevens recently. Manning made note of the fact that the Celtics general manager did not expect Horford back with the team.

Stevens said the #Celtics made offers to Kornet and Horford, and that Horford's return is unlikely.
— Bobby Manning (@RealBobManning) July 8, 2025

Stevens' desire to still win was pointed out by Manning as well. An offer was made to Horford to help continue that in Boston. However, if the free-agent center does return for the 2025-26 campaign, it is unlikely to be in a Celtics jersey.

What Looming Decision Means for Warriors

The Warriors have been incredibly quiet throughout free agency thus far. They do not have a single confirmed signing to their name yet.

A lot of that will have to do with the waiting game revolving around Jonathan Kuminga's situation. It is difficult to shape a roster when a potential sign-and-trade leaves things unclear with regard to some of the pieces who could be there.

Still, Horford remains a very gettable acquisition for the Warriors. The mutual interest appears to be there, and the veteran big man will have every opportunity to be a steady contributor for Golden State.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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