Warriors center Quinten Post speaks to reporters following Golden State’s practice on Tuesday.
SAN FRANCISCO – As the Warriors prepare to face the Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena on Thursday night, rookie center Quinten Post is likely to be the happiest player on the court.
The game will take place just hours after the NBA trade deadline, where the Warriors’ front office, known for its activity, will likely either breathe a sigh of relief or disappointment. While trades loom, Post is already feeling relief after the surprising trade sending Luka Dončić to the Lakers and Anthony Davis to the Dallas Mavericks.
In his 11 NBA games, Post’s longest playing time was 23 minutes against the Lakers, where he recorded eight points, two rebounds, three assists, one steal, and a plus-2 rating in the Warriors’ 10-point loss. Despite the loss, his performance moved him one step closer to a starting spot in coach Steve Kerr’s lineup.
However, Post faced a tough challenge from Davis, who dominated with 36 points, 13 rebounds, and 3 steals. “That’s pretty nice,” Post said, laughing, about facing the Lakers without Davis on Thursday. “I’m learning the NBA is a crazy place.”
Post’s recent start in three consecutive games, including a win against the Orlando Magic on Monday night, marks another milestone for the second-round draft pick.
Draymond Green returned from a calf injury to start alongside Post, providing the rookie with a valuable opportunity to play next to the four-time NBA champion. Green’s leadership and skills quickly became apparent to Post.
“I actually really enjoyed that,” Post said. “I think we mesh well together. He’s a great playmaker. As a 5 in modern-day basketball, creating offense through screening, passing, and other ways is part of the role, and he helps relieve some of the pressure.”
Post added, “He just kind of brings flow to the offense. And I think I help him by spacing the floor. I do think we meshed well yesterday.”
Their chemistry was evident during the third quarter of Monday’s game, as Green and Post shared a moment of mutual excitement after Post hit a three-pointer. Green, known for his competitive edge, immediately saw that same fire in Post during training camp.
Post showcased his ability to space the floor, hitting a crucial three-pointer during an 8-0 run, and later adding seven points in the first five minutes of the fourth quarter.
“His floor spacing does a lot for us, especially now with Draymond out there,” Brandin Podziemski said. “Draymond can be more of a playmaker now. When Gary Payton II started, defenses could focus on Post more, but with Draymond, they can’t do that.”
Offense has always been Post’s focus, though his defense, particularly in guarding the pick-and-roll, is still developing. Having Green by his side provides Post with a crucial safety net.
“Defensively, he just gives me a lot of confidence,” Post said. “He’s the backline. I know if I make a mistake, he’ll be there to help me out, and vice versa.”
At 7 feet tall with a potential 40% shooting rate from three-point range, Post offers something unique to the Warriors. Unlike previous big men like Otto Porter Jr. or Nemanja Bjelica, Post is a true stretch center.
Green noticed Post’s competitive nature early on. “He tells me the truth, which is awesome,” Post said of Green’s direct feedback. “He doesn’t sugarcoat things. He tells me what I need to do better, and I appreciate that.”
Though Post won’t face Davis in Thursday’s game, he will likely match up with him on February 12 in Dallas and again on February 23 at Chase Center. One thing is certain—Post will be glad to have Green by his side, assuming Green is still in a Warriors jersey after the trade deadline.
