Golden State Warriors: Time is now for Jordan Poole and Nico Mannion

Nico Mannion and Jordan Poole have been flashing signs of productiveness for the Golden State Warriors. Now, the two young guards have a chance to prove that where there is smoke, there is fire.

If Jordan Poole and Nico Mannion are going to prove themselves for the Golden State Warriors, now is the time to do it.

Poole and Mannion have been playing with increased roles since their stint in the G-League. Both showed to be efficient enough at the amateur level to earn a promotion to the NBA. With Stephen Curry’s recent injury, their importance was taken up another notch.

In particular, Poole went from leading the Santa Cruz Warriors to starting in a game against the Memphis Grizzlies. He scored 25 points on 10-of-15 shooting in this match, going on to average 21.8 points and 3.5 assists in his four games as a starter.

Meanwhile, the 20-year-old Mannion is posting 7.9 points and 3.1 assists since returning from the G-League. He has drilled 14-of-31 (45 percent) attempts from the 3-point line and has limited himself to just over one turnover a game.

These two guards have responded well to their increase in usage but they are about to be put to the test for real now that the Warriors have parted ways with Brad Wanamaker. While Wanamaker was already being phased out of the rotation due to his poor performances, his departure will fully open a door for Poole and Mannion to embrace their roles as second unit stars.

The remainder of this season can be viewed as a sort of tryout for the Warriors’ reserves. It’s expected this roster will be shaken up to some degree in the summer, but a string of strong performances from Poole and Mannion could solidify their positions with the team.

They don’t need to become blazing superstars overnight. But, if Poole and Mannion plan on being consistent members of the rotation moving forward, it’s crucial they seize the moment and finish the year with a bang.