The Golden State Warriors, fresh off orchestrating a historic seven-team trade headlined by Kevin Durant, are grappling with unsettling developments that could reshape their roster and competitive outlook. The blockbuster deal, set to be finalized on Sunday, July 6, 2025, will see the Warriors acquire promising young talents Jahmai Mashack and Alex Toohey. However, just a day after agreeing to this massive trade, the organization received worrisome news about their top free agency target, veteran center Al Horford, casting a shadow over their offseason plans.

A Game-Changing Trade with Lingering Uncertainty
The Warriors’ involvement in the record-setting seven-team trade, which includes the return of former MVP Kevin Durant to the franchise, was expected to bolster their championship aspirations. The addition of Mashack and Toohey signals a commitment to blending youth with experience, but the trade’s finalization hinges on the NBA’s transaction moratorium lifting at 9 a.m. on Sunday. With a current payroll of $170.5 million for nine players, the Warriors are navigating a tight financial landscape, sitting just below the NBA’s luxury tax line of $187.9 million and the restrictive aprons of $195.9 million and $207.8 million. A team source told the San Francisco Chronicle that the organization is “still working through things,” highlighting the complexity of their roster-building strategy.
The Al Horford Dilemma: A Free Agency Setback
The Warriors had set their sights on Al Horford, a five-time All-Star center most recently with the Boston Celtics, as their primary frontcourt target in free agency. However, according to San Francisco Chronicle reporter Sam Gordon, Horford, who is also reportedly considering retirement, is not expected to make a decision this weekend. This delay is particularly concerning for Golden State, as they are not the only team vying for the 39-year-old’s services.
While The Stein Line’s Jake Fisher initially reported that “all signs point to Horford landing with the Dubs,” a new contender has emerged: the Denver Nuggets. Denver, who recently swapped Dario Saric for Jonas Valanciunas in a trade on Monday, now faces uncertainty with their backup center position. Reports indicate that Valanciunas could depart for the EuroLeague, leaving a significant gap in Denver’s frontcourt. The Nuggets are prepared to offer Horford their full $14.1 million mid-level exception, a financial package that could prove tempting for the veteran big man.
Why This News Is a Blow to Golden State
The Warriors’ pursuit of Horford was seen as a critical move to solidify their frontcourt, especially after the departure of key players in the seven-team trade. Horford’s experience, versatility, and championship pedigree—he was part of the Celtics’ 2024 title-winning team—made him an ideal fit alongside the Warriors’ core. His ability to stretch the floor, defend multiple positions, and provide leadership would have complemented the team’s revamped roster, particularly with Durant’s return.
However, Denver’s interest and Valanciunas’ potential exit have thrown a wrench into Golden State’s plans. Horford’s hesitation to commit immediately suggests he may be waiting to see how the Nuggets’ situation unfolds, potentially giving Denver an edge if they can offer a more lucrative deal or a clearer role. For a Warriors team already navigating a delicate salary cap situation, losing out on Horford could force them to pivot to less desirable options or overpay to retain restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga, who is also in the midst of contract negotiations.
Jonathan Kuminga’s Future Adds to the Uncertainty
In addition to the Horford saga, the Warriors are dealing with Jonathan Kuminga’s restricted free agency. Kuminga, a talented forward with significant upside, is free to secure an offer sheet from another team, which the Warriors would then have the option to match. Alternatively, they could negotiate a contract extension or explore a sign-and-trade scenario. With the team’s payroll already pushing against luxury tax constraints, Kuminga’s next contract could further complicate their financial flexibility, especially if they miss out on Horford.
Kevin Durant’s Return and the Bigger Picture
The seven-team trade, headlined by Durant, was meant to signal a bold step toward reclaiming the Warriors’ status as NBA contenders. Durant’s return to Golden State, where he won two championships and two Finals MVP awards from 2016 to 2019, was a seismic move that rekindled fans’ hopes of another title run. However, the uncertainty surrounding Horford and Kuminga threatens to undermine the momentum generated by the trade. Without a reliable center to anchor the frontcourt, the Warriors risk entering the season with an incomplete roster, potentially hampering Durant’s impact and the team’s overall chemistry.
What’s Next for the Warriors?
As the NBA’s transaction moratorium lifts on Sunday, the Warriors must act swiftly to address their frontcourt needs. If Horford opts for Denver or retirement, Golden State may need to explore other free agents or trade options, though their limited cap space will make this challenging. The team’s front office, led by general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr., will also need to resolve Kuminga’s contract situation to avoid losing a key piece of their future.
The Warriors’ blockbuster trade was a statement of intent, but the “terrifying truth” they now face is the risk of falling short in free agency. With Horford’s decision looming and Denver emerging as a legitimate threat, the Warriors are at a crossroads. The coming days will be critical in determining whether Golden State can build a roster capable of maximizing Durant’s return and contending for a championship in the 2025-26 season.