3 Things Golden State Warriors must prove early on this season

PORTLAND, OREGON - OCTOBER 04: Draymond Green #23 of the Golden State Warriors reacts against the Portland Trail Blazers in the second quarter during the preseason game at Moda Center on October 04, 2021 in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images)
PORTLAND, OREGON - OCTOBER 04: Draymond Green #23 of the Golden State Warriors reacts against the Portland Trail Blazers in the second quarter during the preseason game at Moda Center on October 04, 2021 in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images)
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Golden State Warriors (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images)
Golden State Warriors (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images)

Jordan Poole’s preseason was not a fluke

It is the question on everyone’s mind. Is Jordan Poole for real? Can he actually be the second option on the Golden State Warriors this season?

If his preseason performances are anything go off, the answer is an emphatic yes.

This brings us to the obvious statement that preseason is hardly ever worth making any bold predictions. But, Poole just might be poised for an All-Star caliber season.

The talents he is flashing in preseason are areas of development he has been passionately working on for the last two years. We saw glimpses of his court vision and creativity as a ball-handler but never before has Poole looked this good at the NBA level.

Poole has grown in many ways. He is no longer the timid creator he once was. Now, Poole can pull-up from 28 feet without fear — and he is not afraid to put the ball on the floor and attack the rim, either.

We still have to see if a backcourt of Stephen Curry and Poole can manage themselves defensively but their ceiling as offensive superstars is enticing enough to keep us engaged. Poole will have to prove he was no fluke during the preseason, of course.