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However, Horford doesn't appear to be in a rush to make a final decision regarding his current free agency. He could still opt to retire now, rather than chasing another championship ring. There's also the concern that Golden State's negotiations with Jonathan Kuminga are slowing down the franchise's ability to strengthen last year's roster.
During a recent appearance on ESPN's NBA Today, Anthony Slater detailed why losing out on Horford so late in the summer would be a tough blow for the Warriors, especially as Kevon Looney has already left the franchise.
"All signs point to Al Horford," Slater said. "They're certainly interested in him. If they're not able to get that done, if Horford, who you hear is also mulling retirement, is not on the roster next year, it's a big miss by the Warriors as it's in their plans. They need a stretch five."
Horford is the type of floor-spacing five the Warriors need. In recent years, he's become almost an exclusively perimeter-based threat, as he picks and chooses when to work out of the post or drive into the paint. He shot 36.3% from deep last season on 5.2 attempts per game, and 41.9% in 2023-24 on 4 attempts per game. Horford should fit well in Steve Kerr's five-out-based offense.
Furthermore, Horford will add some positional versatility to the Warriors' defensive rotation. Even now, with him closing in on his 39th birthday, Horford can guard multiple positions on the floor, rebound in traffic and his understanding of angles makes him a high-level drive deterrent. Pairing him with Draymond Green could unlock a new level of defensive efficiency from the franchise.
Unfortunately, Warriors fans may need to continue waiting for the veteran big man, as neither he nor the Warriors' front office appears to be in a rush to get the deal over the line.
This post originally appeared on Warriors Wire! Follow us on Facebook and Twitter!
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