By Sunday 
For years, the Golden State Warriors have been the picture of stability. A core of Steph Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green, bolstered by smart role-player additions, kept them at the top of the NBA mountain. But this summer? Things are getting messy in the Bay — and Lakers fans can’t stop grinning.
Horford’s Future Hangs in the Balance
At the center of the storm is veteran big man Al Horford. While not the same player he was in his prime, Horford’s high-IQ defense and floor spacing are exactly what the Warriors have been leaning on to plug gaps in their frontcourt. The problem? Horford hasn’t committed to returning next season, and whispers of retirement are growing louder.
For the Lakers, this is gold. Horford’s absence would leave Golden State scrambling for a reliable big — something they’ve struggled to find since losing key size in recent seasons.
Roster Holes Are Starting to Show
The Warriors aren’t just dealing with a Horford dilemma. Their depth chart already looks thinner than a playoff rotation should. Injuries to key contributors last season exposed just how fragile their bench really is.
And with the Western Conference looking as stacked as ever, even a minor roster crack can become a full-blown fault line. The Lakers, meanwhile, have made targeted offseason moves to shore up their own weaknesses — and they’re hoping Golden State’s stumble becomes their step forward.
Why Lakers Fans Are Relishing the Drama
It’s no secret that Lakers-Warriors matchups have become marquee events in recent seasons. From playoff battles to primetime clashes, the rivalry has heated up. Any sign that the Warriors are slipping feels like a win for Lakers Nation — even if it’s just in the court of public opinion for now.
If Horford hangs it up, the Warriors’ front office will have to move quickly and decisively in a market where solid big men aren’t exactly growing on trees. Until then, Lakers fans will keep watching, waiting, and smiling at every bit of Golden State’s uncertainty.