Veteran center Al Horford did not rush to sign a contract this offseaosn. Despite free agency starting on June 30, Horford waited until late September to make his decision.
The 39-year-old signed a two-year, $11.6 million deal with the Warriors. Horford was fully guarenteed that money at signing. In 2025-26, he’s appeared in 13 of the team’s 27 games. He’s missed 14 games due to various injuries. The one-time NBA champion has missed nine of Golden State’s last 11 games. However, head coach Steve Kerr said Al Horford is “nearing a return.” He is doubtful to play Thursday vs. the Suns.
Al Horford is on the verge of returning to the Warriors
Al Horford is back on the court. Steve Kerr said his injury issue has healed. Called him doubtful for Thursday in Phoenix, but nearing a return.
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) December 16, 2025
In 2025-26, veteran center Al Horford has been in and out of the lineup for the Warriors. The 39-year-old has dealt with numerous injuries early in the year. His latest is a back injury that’s forced him to miss nine of the team’s last 11 games. Horford played 18 minutes on November 21 and then 17 on December 4. He hasn’t played in back-to-back games in over a month.
On Monday, Warriors head coach Steve Kerr spoke with reporters. He gave a positive injury update for Al Horford. Kerr said Horford is “nearing a return” for Golden State. Additionally, he’s been upgraded to doubtful for Thursday. Additionally, Kerr said Al Horford is back on the court at practice.
Warriors practiced today at Chase Center and announced Pat Spencer (personal) is out Thursday against the Phoenix Suns. Al Horford (sciatica) is returning to basketball activities, per head coach Steve Kerr. Remains doubtful Thursday in Phoenix.
— Sam Gordon (@BySamGordon) December 16, 2025
This season, Al Horford has appeared in 13 of the Warriors’ 27 games. The five-time all-star has made one start for Golden State. His 21.5 minutes per game is a new career-low for Horford. On top of that, his 5.6 points and .321 field goal percentage are also career lows. Despite the step down in his production, Al Horford is still a savvy bet Steve Kerr can use off the bench. Golden State is on the road Thursday night vs. Phoenix. On Saturday, the Warriors will play a second straight game vs. the Suns. Could Al Horford return on December 20?
