Mike Dunleavy admits there is something Warriors medical staff need to monitor with Al Horford

Mike Dunleavy says why Al Horford will miss some games for the Golden State Warriors

Horford has shown impressive longevity in recent seasons with the Boston Celtics. In year 18, he averaged 9 points and 6.2 rebounds, but he played only 60 games.

That’s because Horford did not play any back-to-backs last year. That’s reasonable for the 39-year-old, but it’s something Dunleavy admitted the Warriors are watching closely.

When the issue of back-to-backs was put to Dunleavy by reporters, he said, “Yeah, we’ll monitor it. I think our medical group has done a great job the last few years of pacing our guys, whether it’s Draymond, Steph, any of these guys they’ve had at their age.

“We’re good with it, familiar with it, and that’s the beauty of having a team with some depth.

“There’s going to be nights where those guys will be missing games, and we feel like we’ve got good solid rotation players that can step in and help us.”

It’s the reality of an aging team, unfortunately for the Warriors. Stephen Curry is 37, Draymond Green is 35, and Jimmy Butler is 36 entering this season. It’s only natural that all three will miss games throughout the year.

But in a stacked Western Conference, which is as competitive as it has ever been, there are no games the Warriors can afford to throw away. As they try to stay healthy for the postseason, they could well add more fixtures to their schedule by falling into the play-in.

Golden State Warriors could have a volatile locker room

Horford became a legend in Boston for his professionalism and leadership during his tenure there. The Warriors hope he can do the same for them, but Kerr believes he’ll just be replacing what they already lost.

Looney joined the New Orleans Pelicans and is ready to suit up for his first NBA season outside of Golden State. Kerr just hopes Horford can replace him.

He said, “We’re going to miss Loon, but I feel very lucky to have Al to fill some of that void.”

The Warriors need all the leadership they can get with a potentially volatile roster. While Kuminga’s contract has been agreed upon, there are still concerns that he can be a locker room issue next season.

Green has a history of blow-ups, just take his history with Jordan Poole as evidence for that. Meanwhile, Butler was suspended by the Miami Heat as he tried to force his way out last season.

They have the talent to contend for Curry’s fifth NBA championship, but will Golden State’s locker room remain intact for long enough for them to do so?