Golden State Warriors veteran Al Horford is set to make his return on Thursday for the highly anticipated Christmas game against the Dallas Mavericks. The 39-year-old big man has been upgraded to available after missing the last seven games due to right sciatic nerve irritation, as reported by Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints.
Horford’s presence has been missed, especially given his recent struggles with injuries, which have limited his performance in the 2025/26 season. Coming into Thursday’s matchup, he had played in just 13 of the Warriors’ 30 games, averaging a career-low of 5.6 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 21.5 minutes per game. His shooting percentages have also dipped, with career lows of 38.1% from the field and 29.8% from beyond the arc, though these figures come from a small sample size.
Despite these challenges, Horford’s experience and veteran savvy remain invaluable. A five-time All-Star, he played a crucial role in the Boston Celtics’ championship victory in 2024. The Warriors signed him as their notable free agent acquisition during the offseason, securing a two-year deal worth $11.7 million that includes a player option for the 2026/27 season.
Head coach Steve Kerr has indicated that Horford will come off the bench for Thursday’s game, maintaining the starting lineup that has been effective in recent contests, featuring Stephen Curry, Moses Moody, Jimmy Butler, Draymond Green, and Quinten Post. Horford’s return adds depth and potential for the Warriors as they look to build momentum during the holiday season. With his leadership and experience, fans remain hopeful that he can contribute positively despite his recent challenges.