The Golden State Warriors have reportedly moved away from their trade interest in Chicago Bulls center Nikola Vučević, signaling a shift in their strategy to bolster the frontcourt. The decision marks the end of a potential deal that could have brought the veteran big man to Golden State, as the franchise appears to focus instead on signing free agent Al Horford. The Warriors are now considered a leading contender to land Horford, who could serve as a replacement for Kevon Looney following his departure to the New Orleans Pelicans.
Warriors move to Al Horford during NBA free agency
Vučević had emerged as a possible trade target due to his offensive versatility, rebounding, and ability to stretch the floor—skills that might have complemented Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. However, internal skepticism reportedly existed within the Warriors organization regarding whether Vučević, 34, was the right fit for their current timeline and championship aspirations. His age, $21.4 million salary for next season, and impending unrestricted free agency further complicated the calculus.
A major sticking point was the Bulls’ asking price. Chicago was reportedly seeking a first-round pick and a second-rounder in return for Vučević, a price the Warriors were hesitant to pay given his short-term contract and long-term limitations. The front office’s reluctance to part with valuable draft capital for a player who might not align with the team’s pace and style of play ultimately contributed to the breakdown in momentum surrounding the deal.
While the idea of adding Vučević as a stretch-five option had some appeal, Golden State seems to have concluded that the veteran center does not offer enough defensive reliability or long-term value. League insider Jake Fischer confirmed that the Warriors have moved on from pursuing Vučević and are instead zeroing in on other options, with Al Horford now topping their list. Horford, though older at 38, brings playoff experience, leadership, and positional intelligence—qualities the Warriors may value more in a depth role as they recalibrate their roster after missing the playoffs.
With Looney gone and the franchise looking to keep its championship window alive, the focus now shifts to free agency rather than trade. Though the Vučević saga may be over, it highlights Golden State’s urgency to add veteran frontcourt help without sacrificing future assets, as they balance the demands of contention with roster sustainability.
