Al Horford sat on the sidelines once again during the Golden State Warriors’ loss to the Houston Rockets. The 19-year veteran has been a key player for head coach Steve Kerr this year. Unfortunately, he has been out since March 13 due to a strained right calf.
Despite having Steph Curry back, the 10th-seeded Warriors still lost their fourth straight game. Curry was incredible in his return from injury, but it still wasn't enough to carry Golden State to victory. Kevin Durant and Co. escaped with a tightly contested win at Chase Center, 117-116.
The Warriors are now preparing for the final four regular-season contests. They are hoping that Horford can get back in time before the play-in tournament.
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Kerr spoke to reporters after Sunday's loss, and he provided a timely update on Horford's current status.
“Kerr said Al Horford won’t play Tuesday against the Sacramento Kings,” Sam Gordon of the San Francisco Chronicle wrote on X. “But is positioned to intensify his workouts this week with the hope of rejoining the rotation before the play-in tournament.”
The former Florida Gators star signed a two-year, $11.65 million deal with the Warriors last offseason. Horford is averaging 8.3 points, 5 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.2 blocks in 43 games this year. The 2024 NBA Champion is shooting 42.4% from the field and 36% from three for Golden State.
Horford's return will be huge for the Warriors as they look to secure a playoff spot. Golden State needs all the help it can get. They need two play-in wins to secure the eighth seed in the NBA playoffs.
Golden State will face California teams for its last four regular-season games. They will match up against the Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers and the Sacramento Kings twice.
