Is guard Jordan Poole the missing piece for the Golden State Warriors?
Jordan Poole has had an impressive start to the preseason putting up 30 points in game one and 17 in the second game. Leading the Golden State Warriors in scoring both nights.
Jordan Poole is sticking true to the breakout season predictions as he is off to a red-hot start for the Golden State Warriors in the preseason.
On his way to these scoring totals, Poole hit some tough shots and had some excellent reads. It seems as if he has finally found his footing on this roster.
Poole’s fit with Steph Curry
During his two seasons in Golden State, Poole has had a limited opportunity to play with the Warriors superstar due to time spent in the G-League or injuries.
During that time, however, Poole has had some good games, including a stretch after his return from the G-League last season where he looked dominant.
Notably, his off-ball movement and his shot creation, not only for himself but for others as well, has drastically improved from his lackluster rookie season. Both traits mesh well with the Golden State’s typical offensive game plan.
Poole could play multiple roles, including but not limited to: a drive and distribute role, a microwave role, or the Klay Thompson Style 3-and-D role.
Poole’s fit with the Warriors bench
While Poole is likely to start most of the season, it is likely that Thompson will return to Golden State’s lineup halfway through the season.
Thompson’s return will likely push Poole back to the bench where he could have the opportunity to lead the second unit and be a huge microwave-shot creator off the bench.
Poole could play time off the bench for both Curry and Thompson due to his ability to not only create for himself but for others as well.
Poole’s expectations
Poole should be ready for a break-out third season with Golden State, becoming a player that can come in and hit tough shots when the offense becomes stagnant.
Poole could also bring much relief for the Warriors and stop the bleeding to an extent as they await the return of Thompson.
Jordan Poole is an absolute bucket and has hot streaks that rival most anybody in the league. This season will be his opportunity to prove himself to his team and to the world.
Even after only averaging 8.8 points per game in his rookie season and still only 12 points per game last season, there are many signs of hope that he could be a 15-20 point per game player in the 2021-22 NBA season.
If Poole can continue what we saw from him in the last month of the 2020-21 regular season and so far in the 2021 preseason, Golden State will be in contention for not only the playoffs but for the opportunity to bring home the coveted Larry O’Brien trophy as well.