How Does Al Horford Fit Into Golden State Warriors’ System?

How does the long-time NBA journeyman fit inside the Warriors’ system, and why could he be just the piece this team needs to remain competitive in a cutthroat Western Conference?

Al Horford’s Elite Floor-Spacing and Passing Abilities

It’s no secret the Warriors have sorely lacked the presence of a true floor-spacing big man over the past several years. While rookie Quinten Post showed flashes of potential last season, adding a savvy veteran like Al Horford to the rotation is a no-brainer for the Dubs.

Over the course of his career, Horford has consistently demonstrated the ability to shoot the three-ball at an elite level, averaging just shy of 38% from beyond the arc across eighteen seasons. This level of efficiency from long range has propelled Horford into becoming one of the league’s most-respected floor-spacing threats at the center position; exactly the sort of player this Warriors’ roster desperately craves as it’s currently constructed.

In addition to his floor-spacing ability, Horford possesses elite court vision and ball distribution skills, both of which have been staples of his play style over the years. As evidence of his exceptional decision-making as a passer, Horford posted an impressive 3.3 assist-to-turnover ratio in the 2024 playoffs, showcasing his ability to enhance offensive flow in a trustworthy fashion.

In the past, Warriors’ head coach Steve Kerr‘s offensive system has traditionally favored big men with dependable playmaking abilities, suggesting Horford’s integration into the Warriors’ fast-paced, motion-heavy play style should be relatively seamless.

Horford’s Impact on the Defensive End

Aside from what he brings to the table offensively, Horford also has the potential to make a strong impact for the Warriors on the defensive end.

Over the course of his eighteen years in the league, Horford has established himself as a respectable low-block defender and paint-protector. In 2024, the veteran center posted an on-court defensive rating of 110, good enough to land him in the 82nd percentile among eligible players.

While he may not be a volume shot-blocker, Horford has developed a reputation across the association as a formidable rim-protector. For evidence of this, one can point to his opponents’ at-rim expected field goal percentage in 2024, which was approximately 6.2% lower than league-average projections.

With Horford presumably starting at the center spot, Kerr would be able to play Draymond Green primarily at the power forward position, his preferred role and where he’s thrived historically on the defensive end.

Fair Expectations for Horford’s Role in the Bay

Plain and simple, Al Horford’s professional basketball resume speaks for itself. Throughout the course of his eighteen years in the association, the five-time all-star and NBA champion has played an impactful role at each of his stops along the way.

Now, with him set to join the Warriors, Horford will take his multitude of experiences and basketball knowledge to the Bay Area, where he’ll look to make one last run at the Larry O’Brien Trophy.

Alongside fellow co-stars Curry, Butler, and Green, Horford will likely slide into a starting role for the Dubs. When asked about Horford’s projected nightly role, Warriors’ analyst Monte Poole recommended giving the veteran roughly 20-25 minutes of action per game.

While there are availability concerns with Horford, who’s heading into his age-40 season, the veteran center has shown the ability to contribute in a big way on contending rosters, especially in a playoff setting. If he’s able to remain healthy come playoff time, Horford has the chance to become a real X-factor for a Warriors team preparing for a deep postseason run.

All in all, while he may be in the twilight of his career, Al Horford still gives the Warriors a much-needed floor spacing and rim protection at the center spot.