Warriors Linked To Al Horford; Jonathan Kuminga Talks Largely Stalled

The Golden State Warriors are expected to make a strong run at Boston Celtics big man Al Horford in free agency, per Marc Stein and Jake Fischer of The Stein Line. Golden State is prioritizing a stretch center this summer, and Horford fits the mold.

According to The Athletic’s Anthony Slater, “many in the league continue to link” the veteran to the Warriors as free agency nears.

In addition, league sources tell Hoops Wire that the Celtics will likely continue to make moves even after trading away Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday. That could signal the end of Horford, a free agent, in Boston.

Anyway, Golden State’s ability to land Horford or any other notable addition will hinge largely on how the Jonathan Kuminga situation plays out. Kuminga remains a restricted free agent, and while there have been preliminary talks with the Warriors, Slater reports that there’s no traction toward a new deal yet. The two sides aren’t expected to reach a quick resolution.

Kuminga, 22, has the right of first refusal tied to his name, meaning the Warriors can match any offer sheet he signs elsewhere. Still, the forward plans to explore his options in free agency, with the Miami Heat and Chicago Bulls considered the most aggressive suitors, per Slater.

The Sacramento Kings and New Orleans Pelicans have also been linked as potential destinations in sign-and-trade scenarios, according to Stein and Fischer.

Golden State is said to be open to working with Kuminga on a sign-and-trade — but only if the return is significant enough to outweigh the value of keeping him. Otherwise, the Warriors appear comfortable heading into a slower negotiation process, giving them time to monitor the free agent market for help in the frontcourt.

No matter, Golden State is expected to have some form of mid-level exception available, and sources tell Slater that Warriors brass will be “on the recruiting trail” when the market opens.

Horford, who is entering his 18th season, would bring both shooting and leadership to a roster still intent on maximizing the Stephen Curry window.