The Golden State Warriors recently extended Gui Santos’ contract, a move that will please the 23-year-old and his teammates but casts doubt over Quinten Post‘s upcoming contract prospects. Both players were set to become restricted free agents this offseason, yet the focus now shifts sharply to Post, whose opportunity for a substantial new deal appears diminished.
Post had hoped to secure a contract comparable to Santos’ recent agreement—a three-year deal worth $15 million, including a third-year player option. However, given the contrasting trajectories and recent contributions from both players, it seems unlikely the Warriors will offer Post a similar figure during their roster deliberations this offseason.
Reduced Role and Performance Challenges Impact Quinten Post’s Contract Outlook
Post, who started 46 games over his first two seasons with Golden State, is facing a challenging moment as his current offer may not exceed $3 to $4 million per year. Compounding this is the loss of his starting position at a crucial time before restricted free agency. Earlier this season, improvements in Post’s defensive skills, particularly as a rim protector, had suggested he might command a contract rivaling or even surpassing Santos’ deal.
Unfortunately, Post has now seen a notable decrease in minutes and role, even prior to the arrival of Kristaps Porzingis, whose addition adds further pressure on Post’s roster spot and future contributions for the Warriors.
Quinten Post’s Season Woes and the Impact of Kristaps Porzingis’ Arrival
When Porzingis made his Golden State debut last Thursday, Post was listed as a DNP (Did Not Play) for the first time this season, reflecting his diminishing time on the court. Although Porzingis has since been sidelined by illness, allowing Post to return and participate in the last four games, Post’s production has remained inconsistent. In a recent victory over the Memphis Grizzlies, Post managed 12 points and eight rebounds, but this was only the fifth time he has scored in double digits over the past 21 games.
Post’s scoring average has actually dipped below his rookie year numbers by 0.5 points, largely due to a significant decline in his three-point shooting accuracy—from 40.8% last season down to 33.9% through 59 games this season. This downward trend in shooting effectiveness has decreased his overall impact on the court.
With Porzingis’ arrival and the extension of Santos’ contract, doubts have intensified regarding Post’s role with the Warriors and the financial terms of his impending contract.
Future Outlook for Quinten Post Amidst Team Changes
Post’s situation exemplifies the uncertainty faced by players on the fringe of team rotations, especially as the Warriors navigate roster decisions that could significantly alter their lineup and salary structure. Gui Santos’ extension, while positive for the team’s stability in that position, makes it clear that the Warriors may prioritize other players moving forward.
As the offseason approaches, Post will need to prove his value quickly if he hopes to negotiate a contract that reflects his early potential and past contributions, though current indications suggest the Warriors’ offer may fall well short of what Santos received.
