4. Al Horford
39-year-old big man Al Horford enters his 19th NBA season with many questioning what his role will look like next season. After years of the Warriors struggling to find a reliable center, he could be the solution. Even so, Horford has to prove it. He won a championship with the Boston Celtics in 2024, but does he have enough energy left in the tank to be considered a first option at center?
Horford must recognize that his time with the Warriors may come in a slightly reduced role. However, while his minutes are in question, he’s still a veteran leader with an invaluable basketball IQ. Therefore, how effectively he makes others around him better will still need to be showcased. Can he use his experience to guide younger teammates while still contributing on both ends of the floor when needed? This preseason will be vital in seeing whether Kerr utilizes him as a steady rotation piece or simply a mentor to help shape Golden State’s future.
