Warriors’ Free Agent Options Narrow After Boucher Signs with Celtics

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The Golden State Warriors received mixed news regarding their top remaining free agent prospects this offseason. While negotiations continue with restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga, another key player has signed elsewhere, narrowing the Warriors’ options.

Veteran power forward/center Chris Boucher has agreed to a one-year, $3.3 million deal with the Boston Celtics, according to his agent, Sam Permut of Roc Nation, as reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania. This move signals that Boston is moving on from Al Horford and adds depth to their frontcourt.

Boucher, a 6-foot-9 player from Florida, had been linked to the Warriors during free agency but remained unsigned for an extended period. His signing with Boston marks a notable development in the offseason, affecting Golden State’s roster plans.

Al Horford, 39, has been considered the top available center on the free agent market. Over the past two playoff runs with the Celtics, Horford was a significant contributor, often outplaying the nominal starting center Kristaps Porziņģis, who dealt with injuries and was recently traded to the Atlanta Hawks.

Since drafting Stephen Curry in 2009, Golden State has not consistently featured a traditional starting center who can spread the floor. On occasion, superstar forward Kevin Durant was placed in that role, but it was never a permanent solution.

Horford’s ability as a career 37.7 percent three-point shooter brings a unique dimension to the Warriors’ offense. In the 2024-25 season with Boston, Horford shot 36.3 percent on 5.2 attempts per game, averaging 9.0 points, 6.2 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 0.9 blocks, and 0.6 steals in 27.7 minutes per game.

Despite his age, Horford remains one of the most capable free-agent big men, making him an attractive option for teams seeking to bolster their frontcourt. However, his age also raises questions about durability for a team like Golden State, which already has veteran players.

The Warriors’ core includes Stephen Curry, 37, along with Jimmy Butler, soon to be 36, and Draymond Green, 35. The team faces challenges maintaining health and competitiveness against younger and deeper Western Conference rivals such as the Oklahoma City Thunder, Houston Rockets, and Denver Nuggets.

The ongoing negotiations with Kuminga remain a key point for the Warriors. Kuminga is reportedly seeking a sign-and-trade deal, while Golden State appears hesitant about the proposed trade returns.

Overall, the Warriors’ offseason has seen limited movement. The signing of Boucher by Boston narrows the pool of available players for Golden State, while the team continues to balance its veteran core and salary cap considerations.