Warriors’ Crucial Al Horford Decision Ahead of Nuggets and Trail Blazers Showdowns
The Golden State Warriors are gearing up for a significant showdown against the Denver Nuggets on Thursday. Following a strong start to the 2025-26 NBA season, the Warriors defeated the Los Angeles Lakers in their season opener. Now, they will be tested against three-time MVP Nikola Jokic and his revamped team.
Warriors’ Key Decision on Al Horford
Amid this challenging matchup, veteran big man Al Horford plays a crucial role. Warriors head coach Steve Kerr confirmed that Horford will not participate in both games of back-to-backs this season. The coaching staff, along with Horford, will decide which game he plays.
Back-to-Back Schedule
The Warriors are facing their first back-to-back series, hosting the Nuggets on Thursday before traveling to play the Portland Trail Blazers on Friday. The decision to have Horford suit up against the Nuggets was straightforward. He will not play in Portland the next day.
- Game 1: Thursday vs. Denver Nuggets
- Game 2: Friday vs. Portland Trail Blazers
With 13 back-to-backs scheduled this season, Horford is certain to miss at least 13 games. The Warriors are likely to strategically choose when to utilize him based on the opponent’s strength.
Horford’s Impact
Despite averaging only five points and five rebounds in his debut game with the Warriors, Horford’s influence extends beyond the statistics. His veteran presence is deemed essential in guarding formidable opponents like Jokic and Jonas Valanciunas. During the season opener, the Warriors employed a small-ball strategy with Draymond Green as center. This approach will likely struggle against the size and skill of the Nuggets.
At 39 years old, Horford might not completely neutralize Jokic and Valanciunas alone, but his experience will be vital for the Warriors in these critical matches. The game against the Nuggets is set for 10:00 p.m. ET in San Francisco, and Horford’s participation is highly anticipated by fans and teammates alike.
