Former NBA champion could be a strong fit with Warriors

Finding a long-term solution at the center position should be a priority for the Golden State Warriors this summer. The lack of size in the middle of the floor is becoming a bigger issue with each passing year. Head coach Steve Kerr can't rely on the pace and peskiness of his aging core to continue protecting the rim by committee. 

Furthermore, the Warriors can't continue asking Draymond Green to operate as a small-ball five. He's too deep into his career and that role will shorten the time he has left in the NBA. 

Since the 2024-25 season came to an end, the Warriors have been linked with a potential move for Al Horford. The veteran big man is an unrestricted free agent. Boston's talent drain has made it clear that it's not going to be contenders next season. 

However, Mike Dunleavy Jr. and Joe Lacob shouldn't put all their eggs in one basket. Horford could opt to return to the Celtics or choose to retire.

That's where ESPN's Kevin Pelton believes Chris Boucher comes into the equation. 

“He shot 36% on [threes] and 63% on [twos] in producing elite efficiency while also proving capable of defending on the wing in big second-unit lineups," Pelton wrote. "The lone Raptors players remaining from the 2019 title team, Boucher might no longer have a place on a roster that looks full with the addition of 26-year-old power forward Sandro Mamukelashvili. Boucher's shooting makes him another logical fit for the Warriors, with whom he started his career as an undrafted free agent before landing in Toronto.”

Boucher is positionally versatile as he can operate across the entire frontcourt. Furthermore, he has the shot profile and to easily slide into Kerr's rotation. Boucher also comes with championship experience. He was part of the Kawhi Leonard-led Toronto Raptors team that secured the Larry O'Brien Trophy in 2019. 

Horford will undoubtedly be the Warriors' top target. He's a proven leader and plays the game the right way. His personality would make his fit in the Golden State appear seamless. However, Boucher should be a close second. Everything the franchise is looking for, he can bring to the table. He would likely be cheaper than Horford, too.

The only downside is that Boucher is 6-foot-9. He doesn't provide enough size for Golden State to go toe-to-toe with some of the giants in the NBA. Nevertheless, his physicality and length could help make up for the lack of height. 

Golden State needs a big man and Pelton is suggesting a genuine backup target. As long as the Warriors head into training camp with someone to anchor the paint, their fan base should feel confident that a strong season will await them.