The Golden State Warriors’ 28-27 record and placement as the No. 10 seed in the Western Conference may not be an indicator that the team is a future title-winner, but certain positional upgrades could bring the franchise back to contention.

As things currently stand, Golden State’s current starting center role has been filled by their No. 52 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft Quinten Post. Post’s play has been productive for the most part, as the 7-foot three-point shooter was able to sign a standard NBA contract with the team on Feb. 7.

Even though the 24-year-old rookie has shown flashes, it’s likely that he might not be the best option at the center position if the team wants to remain in the hunt for a title with Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler and Draymond Green on the roster.

As a result, Golden State’s general manager Mike Dunleavy may opt to scour the free agent market this summer. Fortunately for Dunleavy, he could look to begin negotiations with free agent center and 2024 NBA champion with the Boston Celtics, Al Horford.

At 38 years old, Horford has remained a solid contributor for Boston as they look to win their second consecutive title in 2025. The five-time All-Star and 2017-18 All-Defensive Team selection is averaging 7.9 points and 5.5 rebounds while connecting on 35.3% of his three-point opportunities.

The Warriors were able to get a great look at Horford’s skill set when they faced off against the Celtics in the 2022 NBA Finals. Horford was unbelievable for Boston despite their eventual series defeat, contributing 12.5 points, 8.5 rebounds and 2.8 assists while knocking down a ridiculous 62.5% of his looks from distance.

The Celtics would surely love to bring the gritty, floor-spacing veteran back to the team this summer, but they might not be able to offer him his preferred salary due to the team’s financial instability.

Through the 2028-29 season, Boston owes the tandem of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown a combined $562 million, which could force Horford to look elsewhere if he’d like to continue his career.

Golden State’s hypothetical acquisition of Horford heading into what would be his 19th NBA season could plausibly still be a great decision, as the two-man game between he and Curry would have the potential to be a dangerous combination due to Horford’s ability to stretch the floor.

On defense, he’d also fit right in as a solid rim-protector next to two all-time great defensive players like Butler and Green. As an added bonus, Horford’s NBA Finals D.N.A. would give the Warriors yet another reliable talent with endless postseason experience.

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