Warriors rumors: What Al Horford’s new contract means for Kristaps Porzingis

The Golden State Warriors may not be finished reshaping their frontcourt after agreeing to bring back veteran center Al Horford.

ESPN’s Shams Charania reported Thursday that Horford declined his player option and intends to sign a new two-year, $14 million contract to remain with the Warriors. The deal will make Horford just the 13th player in NBA history to reach 20 NBA seasons.

The agreement also appears to have little impact on Golden State’s pursuit of center Kristaps Porzingis.

Shortly after Charania’s report, ClutchPoints NBA insider Brett Siegel shared an update on the Warriors’ ongoing negotiations with Porzingis.

“They are actively in negotiations with Kristaps Porzingis to bring him back.

I would expect a deal done relatively soon on that front. Both sides want a deal done, and it sounds like it will be favorable for them.”

Siegel’s report suggests the Warriors view Horford’s extension and a potential new deal for Porzingis as complementary moves rather than mutually exclusive decisions.

Kristaps Porzingis remains in Warriors’ plans after Al Horford agreement

Golden State acquired Porzingis from the Atlanta Hawks at the February trade deadline in exchange for Buddy Hield and Jonathan Kuminga. Although injuries limited his time with the franchise, the veteran center showed flashes of the offensive versatility that made him an All-Star.

Across 16 games, including 11 starts, Porzingis averaged 16.1 points, 5.3 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.1 blocks while shooting 43.3% from the field, 31.1% from 3-point range and 84.4% from the free-throw line in 23.7 minutes per game.

Keeping both Horford and Porzingis would provide Golden State with significantly more size and frontcourt depth heading into the 2026-27 season. Horford offers championship experience, defensive versatility and floor spacing, while Porzingis brings rim protection and another scoring option alongside Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler III and Draymond Green.

The Warriors have placed an emphasis this offseason on balancing veteran experience with roster flexibility following a 37-45 campaign that ended in the Play-In Tournament. Retaining both centers would align with that strategy while addressing one of the team’s biggest needs entering next season.

Although no agreement with Porzingis has been announced, Siegel’s report indicates optimism on both sides. If negotiations continue progressing as expected, Golden State could soon solidify its frontcourt with two experienced veterans expected to play key roles as the franchise attempts to return to postseason contention.

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