Quinten Post has emerged as a crucial player for the Golden State Warriors this season, stepping up in the absence of key veterans Draymond Green and Al Horford. His impressive performance, particularly in defense, has established him as a significant asset, especially considering he was drafted 52nd overall in the 2024 NBA Draft.
Though his statistics have seen a slight decline from his rookie year, Post’s growth in the league has been notable. In his first 42 games, he averaged 8.1 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.3 assists with a shooting percentage of 40.8% from the three-point line. However, his defensive skills were initially lagging behind, primarily due to concerns about his foot speed and verticality, which limited his effectiveness as a rim protector and rebounder.
This season marks a turning point for Post as he shows significant improvement in his defensive stats. His defensive box plus-minus has risen to a respectable 0.9, and his rebounding numbers have also increased, allowing him to make a more substantial impact on both ends of the court. While his shooting has dipped, there remains optimism that he can regain his previous form.
In a competitive second-round draft featuring talents like Jaylen Wells and Jamal Shead, Post’s ability to shoot from the perimeter and defend effectively positions him as one of the notable steals of his draft class. However, the Warriors face a critical decision regarding Post’s future as a starting center.
Post’s inclusion in the starting lineup could enhance the team’s spacing, granting them added flexibility in their rotations. Nevertheless, with Stephen Curry’s career winding down, Golden State needs to see rapid development from Post. The urgency is palpable; if he cannot solidify his position, the Warriors may need to consider trades as the deadline approaches to maintain their championship aspirations.
As the season progresses, attention will be on Post to determine whether he can meet the challenges ahead and prove himself as the center the Warriors desperately need.