Warriors predicted to replace Al Horford with $60 million two-time All-Star

Al Horford hasn’t delivered the goods for the Golden State Warriors this season. 

Although Horford is an aging center who isn’t as mobile as he used to be, his steady long-range shooting and ability to make winning plays led the Warriors to believe he would be a solid addition. 

Unfortunately for the Dubs, Horford has been an underwhelming frontcourt contributor in the Bay thus far, averaging 6.9 points and 5.0 rebounds while shooting 39.9% from the field and 35.3% from beyond the arc.

If the Warriors want to play it out with Horford and attempt to replace him in free agency, Blue Man Hoop’s Peter O’Keefe believes a two-time All-Star center could be a viable option.

“Nikola Vucevic could prove Al Horford replacement in free agency,” O’Keefe wrote last Friday. “Vucevic has been in trade rumors for what feels like forever, including being a prominent name linked to the Warriors before last season's deadline.”

“Passing on the 35-year-old proved the right decision given they got Horford this past offseason, leaving Vucevic to remain with the Bulls where he's expected to stay now beyond this deadline, according to NBA insider Jake Fischer of The Stein Line on Thursday.”

“If Vucevic does hit free agency and Horford was to depart, it could be a natural fit for Golden State who are still looking to address their center rotation. While Vucevic isn't anywhere near the defender Horford is, he's arguably a better offensive player and rebounder who's remained a very productive player.”

Vucevic was linked to the Warriors during the 2024-25 trade season. While Kevon Looney was a fan-favorite center known for doing all the dirty work for the seven-time NBA champions, many were adamant that the organization needed a more skilled and well-rounded big man going forward. 

The Bulls ultimately retained Vucevic, and the Warriors elected to go in a different direction before the Feb. 6 trade deadline (they traded for Jimmy Butler). 

However, Golden State could circle back to the former Philadelphia 76ers big man in the offseason and give their frontcourt hope for the immediate future. 

Vucevic is a reliable low-post finisher who’s an undervalued floor spacer and ideal veteran center for the flawed Warriors. The former No. 16 overall pick is averaging 16.8 points and 9.1 rebounds per game, shooting 50.7% from the field and 37.9% from three-point range.

It wouldn't be surprising for the Warriors to strike a deal for Vucevic before it’s all said and done.

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