3 Burning questions about Golden State Warriors’ playoff rotation

Apr 3, 2022; Sacramento, California, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga (00) dribbles against the Sacramento Kings during the second quarter at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 3, 2022; Sacramento, California, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga (00) dribbles against the Sacramento Kings during the second quarter at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
4 of 4
Next
Golden State Warriors Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-USA TODAY Sports
Golden State Warriors Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-USA TODAY Sports /

1 – Does Jordan Poole stay in the starting lineup?

It’s something we’ve been pondering for a while but Draymond Green’s recent comments have us paying full attention now. Will Jordan Poole be a long-term starter after his breakout performances?

A starting five of Stephen Curry, Jordan Poole, Klay Thompson, Andrew Wiggins and Draymond Green would have all of the classic wrinkles a Warriors championship team is supposed to have. Versatility, chemistry and most importantly, shooting.

Poole is averaging 26.1 points and 5.7 assists in his 14 games since joining the starting lineup. He’s an all-around offensive talent that could make defending the Dubs’ big three a nightmare for opponents.

Still, his best role is likely on the bench. The Warriors’ overall lack of size would be on full display with a starting five of Poole, Thompson and Curry. And, there is little chance Jordan starts over either of the Splash Brothers.

Instead, Poole should revert to a sixth-man role but be prominently featured in closing time. As Draymond said, you can’t take the ball out of his hands now. Yet, I think we would all much rather have the ball in Curry’s hands in the starting five.

Next. Evaluating Warriors' two playoff paths. dark