Warriors Considered Luke Kornet Before Al Horford Signing

OAKLAND, Calif. — The Golden State Warriors were not just focused on Al Horford this summer. Team sources reveal that the Warriors had an interest in 30-year-old center Luke Kornet, who signed a four-year, $41 million deal with the San Antonio Spurs earlier this month.

ESPN’s Anthony Slater reported that Warriors general manager Mike Dunleavy made several calls to reassure Horford about the team’s plans. While Horford was the Warriors’ ‘absolute 1A’ target, they also held some interest in Kornet. However, Kornet was ultimately out of their price range.

Kornet has been in the NBA for eight seasons, playing for teams like the New York Knicks, Chicago Bulls, and Boston Celtics. He has averaged 5.2 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game during his career, shooting 53.5 percent from the field and 32.1 percent from beyond the arc in 354 games.

Following the offseason, Horford made his debut with the Warriors on Tuesday. He recorded five points and five rebounds in a season-opening win against the Los Angeles Lakers. Horford’s sharpshooting and floor spacing make him a valuable addition to the Warriors’ frontcourt.

Meanwhile, Kornet made his San Antonio debut on Wednesday. He posted two points, four rebounds, three assists, and two blocks in 16 minutes in a victory over the Dallas Mavericks. The Warriors’ preference for Horford is evident, yet Kornet’s addition in San Antonio adds further depth to the Spurs’ roster.