Celtics champion continues to be linked with Warriors

Al Horford isn't rushing himself to decide his NBA future. 

The veteran big man is an unrestricted free agent this summer, and given the Boston Celtics' current cap issues and the apparent preparations for a down year, he isn't expected to re-sign with the franchise.

Therefore, Horford has two options available to him: retire or sign with a team elsewhere in the NBA. In recent weeks, the Golden State Warriors have been cited as the most logical landing spot for the 2024 NBA champion. However, as Horford continues to mull over another year in the league, questions have begun to arise.

Fortunately for Warriors fans, long-time NBA insider Marc Stein has put their concerns to rest. In a July 6 edition of his "Stein Line" newsletter, Stein reported that Horford is "destined" to team up with the Warriors for the 2025-26 season.

"While having the full non-taxpayer midlevel would theoretically provide the Nuggets with the financial flexibility to offer a richer Year 1 salary to Boston Celtics free agent Al Horford that Golden State can pitch, I continue to hear that Horford is destined to land in the Bay Area," Stein reported. "That's despite the fact that the Warriors currently have only the $5.7 million taxpayer midlevel to offer him."

Assuming he signs with the Warriors, Horford will solve a long-standing issue in the Bay Area. Steve Kerr's team has been without a high-level center for years. While Horford doesn't bring the size the Warriors frontcourt needs, he does provide exceptional defensive versatility, floor spacing and championship experience. 

Pairing him with Draymond Green should lead to a stout defensive experience in Golden State.

Still, any move for Horford will be nothing more than a stopgap. He turned 39 on June 3. A move to the Bay Area will be to contend for a championship in the upcoming season. With Stephen Curry, Green and Jimmy Butler, Horford could ensure Kerr's team has a strong shot at contending in a loaded Western Conference.

Losing its long-time big man will be a blow for Boston. However, Horford has earned the right to bow out of the league on his terms. If he wants to spend what could be his final NBA season contending for a title then so be it. That's not something the Celtics can realistically provide next season after Jayson Tatum suffered his Achilles tendon tear.