The Golden State Warriors have taken a turn for the unexpected, thanks to rookie center Quinten Post. General manager Mike Dunleavy has made it crystal clear that Post’s emergence has completely flipped the franchise’s script ahead of the February 6 NBA trade deadline. In a revealing chat with the folks on “Dubs Talk,” Dunleavy dropped some truth bombs that had fans dancing in the streets (or at least in their living rooms).

According to Dunleavy, Post’s unique skill set adds a much-needed ingredient to the Warriors’ recipe for success. He said, “Post adds an element that we don’t have. And frankly, we were kind of looking for it in the trade market, and we said, ‘Hey, wait a second, maybe we have this right now, in-house’”.

Selected No. 52 overall in the 2024 NBA Draft, Post made a name for himself in the G League before breaking into coach Steve Kerr’s revamped rotation. And since the Warriors welcomed six-time All-Star Jimmy Butler, Post has been lighting it up, shooting an impressive 42.6 percent from three-point range. Seriously, somebody sign that kid up for a shooting contest!

The Warriors’ recent winning streak of 9-2 since acquiring Butler has only added to the buzz surrounding Post, reminiscent of past rookie sensations that made an immediate impact. Dunleavy noted, “Always surprised when rookies play well; been there myself, not easy”. Which begs the question: why are we still so shocked by rookie talent?

This season, Post has averaged 8.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.5 assists over 24 games, proving that he’s not just a pretty face on the court. His 6’10" stature gives him that essential size advantage, but it’s his floor-stretching ability and defensive prowess that has made him an irreplaceable part of the team’s arsenal.

Beyond numbers, it’s the infectious energy Post brings to the locker room that’s lifted everyone’s spirits. It seems like every time he scores, it’s a dunk of joy for the entire bench. When Dunleavy was asked about Post’s celebratory antics, he chuckled, “I get a kick out of watching his celebrations… it’s just a fun thing to see”.

While the path ahead for Post is still lined with challenges, his contributions have made a compelling case that late-round picks can bloom into stars, without ever needing a trade. As Dunleavy aptly observes, Post’s performances are “gravy on top” for the Warriors’ season, especially since they didn’t need to shake things up at the deadline.

Let’s be real: the only move we care about is the one made by Quinten Post as he steals the spotlight from the so-called big names!