Golden State Warriors sophomore Quinten Post is discovering that life in the NBA isn’t just about big numbers, but the subtle differences that separate good players from great ones. With the addition of veteran big Al Horford, Post is reportedly picking up on habits that have helped Horford extend his career as he looks to head into his 19th pro season.

Speaking to reporters, Post gave some insights, saying, “I mean, offensively, right now we play a similar role in our system being a spacer. But then I think he’s very good in looking for his own…he’s actually quite an aggressive player within being a really good team player.” The young center seems fascinated with the intricacies of Horford’s game: when to drive, take shots, and seal off defenders. For Post, understanding this balance of aggression and calculation is a clear model to follow.

Post also spoke on Horford’s defensive approach: “Defensively, he’s just really steady from what I’ve seen right now. He’s just always in the right spots.” Observing positioning and anticipation from Horford lets Post learn how to be in the right place at the right time and the importance of mental preparation.

Post also added how impressive Horford’s conditioning was at his age. “Obviously, he’s in great shape, and he’s athletic for, how old is he now? 39-year-old,” he said. Seeing how veterans maintain elite performance over decades is inspiring for a young player, showing that consistent prep is key to a long and competitive career.

Meanwhile, Horford spoke on Post’s approach in a different interview. Speaking to reporters, he said, “He’s a very high-IQ type player, really understands how to play and can really shoot the ball. And I just think that he’s in the process of finding his footing in the league. And I mean, being part of this team, this group, he understands what he has to do.”

He also added how hard the Dutchman works, emphasizing that he’s always in the weight room or on the court. “He is consistent with his work, and he has the right tools to be successful because he listens, he works hard, and you can already see some flashes on the floor with him.” For Post, Horford isn’t just a teammate, but a blueprint for a successful career for someone of his archetype.

Al Horford Speaks on His Role in Golden State’s Offense

Al Horford himself is very excited to compete with Warriors superstar Stephen Curry and made this clear to the media. “I’ve never really had to think about before like that, but when I’m on the floor with [Curry], the whole mindset is trying to make the game easier for him“.

The veteran understands that Curry’s role can change the rhythm of the game, and forces defenders to react, opening up opportunities for Horford and his teammates.

For Al Horford, the Stephen Curry experience isn’t just a highlight reel- it’s personal history. Few players have felt the full force of Curry’s brilliance quite like Horford has. Long before joining him in Golden State this offseason, Horford was often on the wrong side of Curry’s magic.

The memories still echo from the 2022 NBA Finals, where Curry seemed to have a sixth sense for finding Horford- and torching him. Game 5 and Game 6 became instant lore, filled with clips of Curry splashing 30-foot daggers and slicing to the rim past the veteran big man.

No matter how well Horford positioned himself, Curry’s shot-making felt untouchable, almost unfair. it’s a front-row seat to the very phenomenon that once haunted him.

Horford explained how he will look to facilitate Curry’s ability. “For me, that is either getting him the ball or setting a good screen or doing anything that I can to make sure that our offense just kind of moves and flows. He’s such a smart player that it’s easy to play off of him, and sometimes he’ll kind of tell you what to do.”

Horford’s action in the Warriors system is designed to maintain momentum and exploit weaknesses in defensive rotations. That mix of experience and IQ makes him a stabilizing presence for the younger players on this roster alongside the rest of the Warriors’ veteran core.

Horford also spoke on the already developing dynamics between him and Curry: “He passed me that ball, but I knew that it was like, he’s gonna cut it. So I guess that’s the unspoken that he’s talking about right there. He expected me to pass the ball, and I did. So for me, it’s just continuing to just play off his energy. He just does such a good job terrifying everybody in the league every time he moves. That’s something I’m going to really take advantage of.”

Horford’s ability to anticipate and exploit openings and mismatches makes him a strategic force and a new wrinkle in the Warriors’ system. Golden State hopes to bring home the championship with him alongside their aging core. Only time will tell if they succeed.