Jordan Poole, after four successful years with the Golden State Warriors, now grapples with the challenges of a new role following a trade to the Washington Wizards.
Once a third or fourth option with the Warriors, Poole finds himself elevated to the first or second option alongside Kyle Kuzma in Washington, a transition that hasn’t been as smooth as expected.
Despite an impressive season with the Warriors, averaging career-high 20.4 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists, Poole’s numbers have taken a dip in Washington, recording 16.7 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game.
Former NBA player Nick Young shared insights on Poole’s transition during an interview with Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson on Scoop B Radio, emphasizing the difficulties Poole faces in a team where defenses are now laser-focused on shutting him down.
“I think right now that both teams are missing each other, you know? The Warriors obviously need him and I think right now he’s learning that it’s hard out there playing without Steph and having Draymond and them out there,” Young said.
“But Poole is going to have a tough year because all the defenses are going to geared in to shut him down; and it ain’t just stopping Steph, stopping Klay… everything is keyed in on you this year, so that’s the way he’s going to have to adjust this year.”
