Just when it looked like the Golden State Warriors were finalizing a deal with veteran big man Al Horford, plans have seemingly shifted. According to recent reports, Horford, previously thought to be headed to Golden State in a near-finalized agreement, is now drawing interest from other teams, including the Lakers, Bucks, and Hawks, while also reportedly considering retirement.
With the Horford signing no longer a lock, the Warriors could be pivoting to a different center target: Jarrett Allen of the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Golden State Warriors Receive: Jarrett Allen
Cleveland Cavaliers Receive: Moses Moody, Gui Santos, 2028 first-round pick
A new trade proposal floating around the league suggests the Warriors could acquire Allen in exchange for Moses Moody, Gui Santos, and a 2028 first-round pick.
The deal would give Golden State a long-term anchor at center while Cleveland picks up a promising young wing in Moody, a rotation-level forward in Santos, and a valuable future asset.
The Warriors Get A Star Center – Maybe For The Future As Well
Allen is coming off a strong season, averaging 13.5 points, 9.7 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and nearly a block per game while shooting an elite 70.6% from the field.
He is in the final year of his current contract ($20 million) before his three-year, $90.7 million extension kicks in from 2026–27. His defensive presence, lob-catching ability, and mobility make him a natural fit alongside Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green in a lineup built on flow and spacing.
However, Allen’s upcoming extension is also part of the risk. The Warriors are reportedly clearing cap space with the 2027 free agency class in mind, which is expected to be among the most star-studded in NBA history.
Taking on Allen’s long-term deal could limit their flexibility, especially with a looming financial decision around Jonathan Kuminga. Golden State must weigh whether Allen is the right player to lock in for the future or whether he could block bigger moves down the line.
It’s a deal that reflects the Warriors’ shifting priorities. Horford, at 39, would’ve been a short-term veteran solution, likely a stopgap for a year or two. Allen, at 27, offers longevity and interior defense, but at the cost of future cap space.
If Golden State believes Allen can be a core piece in their post-Splash Brothers era, this trade may be the smarter play.
The Cavaliers Reduce Salary And Get Valuable Pieces
On the other side, the Cavaliers may see value in retooling their roster. Moses Moody, who just signed a three-year, $39 million extension that begins in 2025–26, is coming off a solid season where he averaged 9.8 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.3 assists while shooting 43.3% from the field and 37.4% from three.
He has developed into a capable 3-and-D wing and fits the mold of a rotation piece who could thrive alongside Darius Garland and Evan Mobley. Gui Santos, on an expiring deal worth $2.2 million, showed flashes with 4.1 points and 3.1 rebounds per game, and could provide depth or salary ballast.
For Cleveland, it’s about more than just reshuffling talent; it’s about getting under the second tax apron.
The Cavaliers are currently facing significant financial pressure. With Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen all on major deals (or set to be), Cleveland is tiptoeing around the punitive second apron introduced in the latest CBA.
From Cleveland’s side, this deal would not only help them, but it also gives them a capable young wing in Moody, who continues to grow defensively. Santos provides depth, and the 2028 first-round pick could be valuable as they navigate their roster post-Mitchell extension.
In essence, this trade would mark a philosophical shift for both franchises. The Warriors, pivoting from a short-term Horford rental to a longer-term Allen investment. The Cavaliers, shedding salary and focusing on balance. Both teams are chasing different forms of flexibility, one financial, one foundational.
