Golden State Warriors have moved on from Jordan Poole after a tumultuous season, dealing him to the Washington Wi..."/> Golden State Warriors have moved on from Jordan Poole after a tumultuous season, dealing him to the Washington Wi..."/>
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Golden State Warriors trying to develop their new version of Jordan Poole

By Peter O'Keefe

PORTLAND, OREGON - APRIL 09: Lester Quinones #25 of the Golden State Warriors looks on during the fourth quarter against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center on April 09, 2023 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 Steph Chambers/Getty Images)
PORTLAND, OREGON - APRIL 09: Lester Quinones #25 of the Golden State Warriors looks on during the fourth quarter against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center on April 09, 2023 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 Steph Chambers/Getty Images) /
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The Golden State Warriors have moved on from Jordan Poole after a tumultuous season, dealing him to the Washington Wizards last month in a package for 38-year-old, 12-time All-Star Chris Paul.

While most have rightfully considered that the Warriors are simply switching Poole for Paul, is the franchise actually priming one of their younger guards to fill the scoring punch void that the 24-year-old has left?

Young guard Lester Quinones is drawing comparisons to the departed Jordan Poole after a strong start to Summer League for the Golden State Warriors.

Lester Quinones is a name rarely mentioned in league circles right now, but for those keeping an eye on the early Summer League outings at the California Classic, the 22-year-old is quietly gaining a reputation.

The 6’4″ combo guard has been a clear standout for the Warriors in their opening two games. Quinones is averaging 23.5 points to date, shooting the ball at a very healthy 56.3% from the field and 58.8% from three-point range.

It’s more than just the box score though — his playstyle, most notably his perimeter movement and shooting both off the dribble and off the catch, is drawing heavy comparisons to Poole. Even down to the finer details of the shooting mechanics, the similarities are uncanny.

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While Quinones’ 26 and 21-point performances have been impressive, it’s not as if they’re coming completely out of nowhere. It’s almost somewhat expected given his form to end last season with the Santa Cruz Warriors, a period in which he proved himself well above the level by winning the G League’s Most Improved Player and being named to the All-Rookie Team.

Poole had a slow start to his career before a crucial stint in the G League halfway through his second season in 2020-21. It hasn’t all been smooth sailing for Quinones either, having lost out on a two-way contract with Golden State during training camp in October.

The undrafted Memphis product remained with Santa Cruz and built his game in the G League, before signing a 10-day contract in early March and eventually back to a two-way after Anthony Lamb was converted to the main roster.

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Golden State tended a two-way qualifying offer to Quinones last week, though he may well be on the precipice of forcing his way onto the main roster with these type of performances. The Warriors will be hoping they have another explosive guard on their hands, one they may be able utilize as early as next season in Poole’s absence.

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