Warriors Weigh Options as Al Horford Considers Future, Nikola Vučević Emerges as Potential Replacement
The Golden State Warriors are navigating uncertainty surrounding veteran center Al Horford’s future, with the possibility of retirement looming. This has led the team to explore potential replacements, with Chicago Bulls center Nikola Vučević emerging as a prominent candidate, February 6, 2026.
Horford has a $6 million player option for the upcoming season, leaving open the possibility of either continuing his career with the Warriors or seeking another opportunity for a potential 20th NBA season. However, he is also reportedly considering retirement, a decision influenced in part by the impending arrival of his sixth child and his desire to remain close to family in Atlanta, and Boston.
If Horford departs, the Warriors may turn to free agency to address their center rotation. Vučević, who has been the subject of trade rumors for some time, could prove to be a natural fit. According to NBA insider Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, Vučević is believed to be open to a more complementary role on a contending team, similar to the role Horford embraced last summer.
“It’s believed that Vučević, should he enter free agency this summer after playing out his three-year deal with the Bulls, will generate some strong interest from teams looking at a longtime starter believed to be open to a more complementary role in the right situation … similar to Al Horford during last summer’s free agency,” Fischer wrote.
The Warriors previously considered acquiring Vučević before last season’s trade deadline, ultimately opting to acquire Horford instead. While Vučević is not considered a defensive player on the level of Horford, he is arguably a more potent offensive threat and rebounder.
The possibility of a trade involving Vučević has also been discussed. Last year, the Warriors and Bulls reportedly engaged in discussions about a deal that would have sent Jonathan Kuminga to Chicago in exchange for Vučević. However, the Bulls were reportedly seeking a first-round draft pick in return, which ultimately stalled the negotiations.
The Warriors’ interest in Horford stemmed from a need for a floor-spacing center, a desire that dates back to last year’s trade deadline. Losing long-time center Kevon Looney to the New Orleans Pelicans last week further emphasized the need to bolster their frontcourt.
However, recent reports suggest the Warriors have “moved away” from pursuing a trade for Vučević, shifting their focus back to free agency and potentially signing Horford. This change in strategy comes after the Warriors initially identified Horford as their primary target this offseason.
Vučević is currently 35 years old and is expected to generate strong interest from teams seeking a veteran presence. While he may not replicate Horford’s defensive impact, his offensive capabilities and rebounding prowess could make him a valuable addition to the Warriors’ roster, particularly if Horford chooses to retire or sign elsewhere.
