NBA insiders say: Curry may play a key role in persuading Horford to join

According to US sports media F/W makeup Chaitania Dadwar. NBA insider Mark Spears claimed: Stephen Curry might be the key to deciding whether Al Horford will retire or play for the Warriors next season. The Warriors have been quite stagnant in the free agent market after losing Kevin Looney to the Pelicans. They are expected to be the frontrunners of two key veterans Horford and Melton. But there are rumors that former Celtics player Horford is considering retirement before deciding whether to return for another season.

Stephen Curry plays a potentially critical role in how Horford makes this decision. Spears claims Horford’s eldest son is a big fan of Curry and could push his father to formally confirm the deal, which was reportedly reached through a handshake agreement. “But remember, do you know who I think the decision will be? His 10-year-old son Ean," Spears shared Tuesday on “NBA Today.” "He just started traveling with Al about two seasons ago. The kid loves basketball. I know he'll say, 'Dad! Stephen Curry, Dad! I can see Ean convince his dad to keep playing."

Earlier this week, Curry was asked about his opinion on Horford's possible joining the Warriors. He indirectly confirmed that the veteran would come, but declined to comment further. "He's a champion, a great player. When... If, when all of this happens, I'll talk about it." Al Horford averaged 12.9 points, 7.9 rebounds and 3.2 assists in his career, and he's played for four teams so far. But last season, his stats dropped sharply to 9.0 points, 6.2 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game. But he shot 37.7% from the field from outside the three-point line.

While Horford's production is no longer at the peak of his career, his presence in the locker room is crucial to helping young big men like Quinten Post grow into the Warriors' potential future starter. Post is also a big guy who can learn from his experience working with Horford. Therefore, Horford's signing can not only solve the Warriors' short-term problems, but also the long-term problems.

Horford won his first NBA championship with the Celtics in 2024, adding to his extraordinary NBA career. Will Horford always hang his boots, or will he tie his shoelaces for his son Stephen Curry's final season with the Warriors? There are still many unanswered questions about the future of Al Horford.