The Golden State Warriors find themselves in a familiar yet challenging position as the NBA offseason progresses. With a core of aging stars and the ever-present desire to contend, the front office is meticulously navigating the free agency market, reportedly setting their sights on two seasoned veterans: Al Horford and De’Anthony Melton.1 However, the path to acquiring these players, or suitable alternatives, is anything but straightforward, intertwined with existing roster complexities and the delicate balance of team chemistry and financial flexibility.
The pursuit of Al Horford speaks volumes about the Warriors’ immediate priorities. At 39, Horford, fresh off a championship run with the Boston Celtics in 2024, represents exactly what the Warriors crave: a high-IQ big man with extensive playoff experience, elite defensive acumen, and the ability to stretch the floor. His passing and playmaking from the center position are also highly valued, fitting seamlessly into Steve Kerr’s motion offense that thrives on ball movement and smart decision-making. Horford’s presence would provide a much-needed veteran anchor in the frontcourt, especially with Kevon Looney reportedly having departed for the New Orleans Pelicans. The intangible leadership he brings, honed over years of high-stakes competition, is difficult to quantify but immensely valuable for a team looking to squeeze every last drop out of its championship window. There’s a strong sentiment around the league that a verbal agreement, or at least a firm understanding, is already in place with Horford, suggesting that the Warriors are his preferred destination.
Simultaneously, the Warriors are reportedly keen on adding De’Anthony Melton. Melton, a 27-year-old combo guard, offers a different, yet equally crucial, set of skills. His calling card is perimeter defense, an area where the Warriors often seek reinforcement, especially against dynamic opposing guards. He brings athleticism and a knack for steals, which could inject much-needed defensive energy into the second unit. Offensively, Melton is a capable three-point shooter, a vital trait in the Warriors’ system, and can provide occasional scoring and secondary playmaking.2 However, a significant concern hangs over Melton’s potential acquisition: he is reportedly recovering from a torn ACL suffered last season.3 This injury, sustained while he was with the Warriors (having been traded to them before the injury and then subsequently to the Brooklyn Nets), adds a layer of risk. While the Warriors reportedly used the full non-taxpayer mid-level exception to sign him last year, his health and availability, particularly early in the season, remain a considerable question mark that the team must carefully weigh.
The Warriors’ offseason plans, however, are not just about who they want to bring in, but also about the unresolved situation of their own restricted free agent, Jonathan Kuminga. Reports suggest that Kuminga’s contract holdout is the primary bottleneck preventing the Warriors from finalizing deals with Horford and Melton, or indeed any other significant free agent. The team’s hesitancy to commit to other players before Kuminga’s future is resolved indicates the significant cap implications and roster flexibility tied to his situation. There’s a perceived disconnect between what Kuminga’s camp is seeking (reportedly upwards of $30 million annually) and what the Warriors are willing to offer (closer to $20 million, with an eye toward a potential trade). This impasse has led to trade rumors involving Kuminga, with teams like the Sacramento Kings and Chicago Bulls reportedly making offers, though none have materialized into a finalized deal yet.4 The longer Kuminga’s restricted free agency drags on, potentially into August or even training camp, the more challenging it becomes for the Warriors to execute their preferred free agency strategy.
Given these complexities, the Warriors are, understandably, exploring alternatives. In the frontcourt, should Al Horford ultimately decide against signing with Golden State, or perhaps even opt for retirement, Thomas Bryant has emerged as a practical contingency plan. Bryant, a 6-foot-10 center, brings a different profile to the table. At 27, he is significantly younger than Horford and offers efficient scoring, an ability to space the floor with his three-point shooting (around 35%), and decent rebounding.5 He even gained valuable high-pressure experience playing legitimate minutes in the 2024 NBA Finals with the Indiana Pacers. While he lacks Horford’s extensive playoff pedigree, elite defensive IQ, and playmaking ability, Bryant presents a serviceable backup option who could fit well into Kerr’s system. His youth also offers more long-term potential. Other names like Chris Boucher and Trey Lyles have also surfaced as potential targets if Horford falls through, with Boucher specifically noted for his offensive versatility and ability to fit into a motion offense.6
In the guard rotation, if Melton’s health concerns prove too significant or if a deal doesn’t materialize, the Warriors might pivot to other options. Malcolm Brogdon, a former Sixth Man of the Year, has been mentioned as a sleeper free agent target.7 While Brogdon has also dealt with injury issues and missed a significant portion of last season, he offers quality veteran guard play, capable of scoring and facilitating. Another name that has surprisingly entered the conversation is Seth Curry, Stephen Curry’s brother.8 While primarily known for his elite three-point shooting, a reunion with his brother could add a valuable bench scoring punch, providing spacing and an instant offensive spark. The familial connection could also foster unique chemistry within the locker room.
The overarching theme for the Golden State Warriors this offseason is one of careful calculation and strategic adaptation. They are navigating a crucial period for their championship window, seeking to add veteran pieces that can immediately contribute to a winning culture while also managing the development and financial implications of their younger assets. The pursuit of Al Horford and De’Anthony Melton signals a clear intent to reinforce key areas – frontcourt depth, defensive versatility, and reliable shooting. However, the unpredictable nature of free agency, combined with the lingering Kuminga situation and the health concerns surrounding some targets, necessitates a robust contingency plan. The Warriors’ ability to successfully execute these maneuvers will undoubtedly shape their competitiveness in the upcoming NBA season and beyond, as they aim to continue their enduring legacy of success.
