We’ve seen some magnificent trios suit up for the Golden State Warriors in recent years. Whether it be the uber-offensive Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson — or the OG big three of Thompson, Curry and Draymond Green — the Dubs know how to put together a three-man lineup that can do some damage.
Now, however, an unexpected trio is starting to gain traction. The small-ball lineup of Curry, Thompson and Jordan Poole is showing some real promise and if the rest of the team can make up for their lack of size, Golden State could be in business.
The three-guard lineup of Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson and Jordan Poole has the Golden State Warriors looking scary good.
Originally, Poole was slated to be the sixth man spark plug who staggers minutes with the Splash Brothers. But with Poole’s recent emergence as a bonafide star and his ability to play off-ball or create off-dribble for others, Steve Kerr is toying with the idea of starting Poole alongside Curry and Thompson.
Draymond Green has already mentioned how difficult it would be to bench Poole during his hot streak and opposing head coach Mike Malone gave high praise to the three-guard lineup.
Michael Malone on Steph, Klay, Poole
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) April 16, 2022
"I go back to last year first round against Portland. Dame, CJ, Norman Powell. No disrespect to those guys, but this (Warriors trio) is on steroids."
"I think we're going to see those three on the floor with Wiggins and Draymond a ton." pic.twitter.com/tk4tjnTWhm
The trio obliterated Denver in Game 1, leading Golden State to a 42-16 run. While they have obvious shortcomings on defense, their offensive potency is something few teams in the NBA can brace for.
Sure enough, Game 2 came around, and the three guards wreaked havoc once again. Upon entering, the Warriors rattled off a 16-0, stifling Denver on defense and blitzing them with nonstop off-ball movement and timely passing to open shooters.
This level of versatility on offense is simply too much to handle. Poole has been hitting from all areas on the floor and we already know what Thompson and Curry are capable of. With Draymond acting as the connector, it’s no wonder this Denver team is reeling.
It remains uncertain how the three-guard lineup will fair against more competent defensive teams. In particular, a squad with just as much versatility as the Memphis Grizzlies or Phoenix Suns.
For now, the Warriors will continue experimenting and seeing just how far this trio can take them.