The Golden State Warriors faced scrutiny throughout the offseason for their perceived inactivity in free agency, as rival teams bolstered their rosters while the Warriors appeared to stall.
However, as the 2025-26 regular season approached, the franchise made decisive moves to strengthen both their lineup and leadership.
Among the key additions were veteran big man Al Horford on a two-year deal and a two-year, $48.5 million contract extension for Jonathan Kuminga, resolving long-standing questions surrounding the young forward.
These acquisitions address immediate roster needs, but they also highlight the challenge posed by the departure of longtime center Kevon Looney.
Looney signed a two-year, $16 million contract with the New Orleans Pelicans in July after citing frustrations with his role in Golden State.
He noted that his minutes were limited during critical moments, particularly in the 2025 playoffs, and that he did not feel fully trusted to perform in his position.
Drafted 30th overall in 2015, Looney contributed consistently to the Warriors over a decade, serving as a key presence on three championship teams (2017, 2018, 2022).
While stars like Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson handled scoring, Looney anchored the frontcourt with rebounding, rim protection, and unselfish play.
Even as he transitioned into a backup role during the 2024-25 season, averaging 4.5 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game, his leadership and stability remained central to the team’s identity.
Head coach Steve Kerr addressed the impact of Looney‘s departure during a recent media session, emphasizing the veteran’s influence beyond statistical contributions.
Kerr described Looney as “a piece of our soul” and one of the greatest leaders he has encountered, noting that his presence was felt even when he did not speak much.
The coach expressed confidence that Horford would help fill some of the void left by Looney while offering new dimensions to the team’s game.
Horford’s role and projected impact
Al Horford, 39, brings a versatile skill set that contrasts with Looney’s more traditional frontcourt style. Last season with the Boston Celtics, Horford averaged nine points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.1 assists over 60 games, shooting 42.3% from the field and 36.3% from three-point range.
Known for his defensive flexibility and ability to space the floor, Horford‘s presence is expected to enhance Golden State‘s pick-and-pop schemes with Curry and Draymond Green.
While Looney excelled as a rim protector and rebounder, Horford offers additional mobility, playmaking, and perimeter shooting.
His experience and championship pedigree provide leadership for a team undergoing transition and reinforce the Warriors‘ core identity as the franchise navigates the later stages of the “Splash Brothers” era.
Golden State‘s disappointing second-round playoff exit in 2025 against the Minnesota Timberwolves underscored the need for roster adjustments.
With Horford and Kuminga secured, the Warriors are better positioned to contend for another championship, combining veteran leadership with skill versatility.
As the team integrates these additions, the focus remains on balancing the offensive and defensive strategies that have defined Golden State‘s success while preparing for sustained competitiveness in the coming seasons.
Read the full article here
