Golden State Warriors: 3 Things to watch in clash with Phoenix
By Tony Pesta
3. Jordan Poole versus Suns’ length
It has been a season of immense growth for Jordan Poole. Yet, anyone who has been through some adversity understands that growth is rarely a straight line. For Poole, the 2021-22 NBA season has been full of highs and lows.
In fairness, Poole is mostly headed in the right direction. He’s averaging 18.1 points as Stephen Curry’s sidekick while Klay Thompson puts the finishing touches on his rehab. However, if there is one thing that has hindered Poole this season, it is his performances against lanky defenders.
The LA Clippers gave him a rude awakening early in the season when the likes of Paul George, Terrance Mann, Reggie Jackson, Eric Bledsoe and Nicolas Batum provided enough length to force Poole into seven turnovers and hold him to 4-of-14 shooting. Then, they did it again on Sunday when Poole began the night 2-of-10 from the floor.
Poole finished Sunday’s game by hitting 4-of-6 shots and scoring 17 points in a victory. Yet, he will be challenged against Phoenix with names like Mikal Bridges and Jae Crowder set to crowd his attempts at scoring. Having Deandre Ayton and JaVale McGee in the paint only further complicates things for Poole.