New Orleans Pelicans general manager Joe Dumars addressed the team’s decision to trade for Jordan Poole, calling him a “dynamic guard” who fits the modern NBA’s demands.
Speaking to Andscape’s Marc J. Spears, Dumars explained that acquiring Poole was about adding proven, high-level guard play to a young roster aiming to compete.
“If you look around the league now, it’s almost a requirement to have high-level guard play,” Dumars said. “Jordan has a skillset that matches the most dynamic guards in this league.”
On July 6, the Pelicans acquired Poole, Saddiq Bey, and the draft rights to Micah Peavy in a three-team trade. The Rockets received two second-round picks while the Wizards landed CJ McCollum, Kelly Olynyk, Cam Whitmore, and a future second-rounder.
Dumars highlighted Poole’s playoff experience and championship pedigree from his time with the Golden State Warriors, noting how he contributed meaningfully during their 2022 title run.
“We’ve seen him be a part of a championship team and contribute at a high level,” Dumars said. “I want him here and I want to tap into all of what he’s experienced so far.”
Poole, who averaged 20.5 points and 4.5 assists last season with the Washington Wizards, now joins a Pelicans backcourt looking for scoring and playmaking consistency.
The trade sparked some backlash, particularly after the Pelicans also sent a 2026 unprotected first-round pick and their No. 23 pick in the 2025 draft to move up and select Queen at No. 13.
Addressing critics of the aggressive moves, Dumars maintained confidence in his strategy, saying he fully expected second-guessing but remains focused on building a competitive roster.
“When you’re running a franchise, you make a determination of what you think you need to start growing your franchise,” Dumars said. “I really don’t mind the criticism. We’re building a team to play it out. We’ll see how it plays out.”
