Veteran center Al Horford spent Thursday at Chase Center while guard prospect Labaron Philon completed a pre-draft workout for the Golden State Warriors, Philon told reporters. Horford, 38, has until June 29 to decide whether to exercise his $6 million player option for the 2026/27 season or enter unrestricted free agency.
Golden State has two additional player-option decisions looming: Draymond Green can opt in at $27.7 million, and De’Anthony Melton holds a $3.5 million option for next year.
Suns weigh first-round pursuit
Jake Fischer reported that the Phoenix Suns have discussed acquiring a first-round selection in this month’s draft; the club currently controls only the No. 47 overall pick. Radio host John Gambadoro added that trading into the first round is “not a priority” for Phoenix at the moment, though he acknowledged the stance could change if the right opportunity emerges.
Clippers likely to keep No. 5 pick
Law Murray of The Athletic examined the Los Angeles Clippers’ options with the fifth overall choice and concluded it probably makes more sense to retain the pick rather than trade it. Multiple guards—Darius Acuff, Keaton Wagler, Mikel Brown, Kingston Flemings and Brayden Burries—are projected in the 5-to-10 range. Murray noted none appears to be a seamless fit alongside starting guard Darius Garland, whom the organization views as a franchise cornerstone despite his defensive shortcomings.
Lakers probe frontcourt help at No. 25
In a separate piece, Murray reviewed potential targets for the Los Angeles Lakers with the 25th pick. Big men Chris Cenac, Tarris Reed and Zuby Ejiofor were highlighted as prospects who could supply depth and athleticism to the frontcourt. Murray also mentioned Duke wing Isaiah Evans among other positional options.
The Pacific Division clubs will continue to finalize their draft boards ahead of the first round, scheduled for later this month.
Source: Hoops Rumors
