The New Orleans Pelicans made a calculated move this offseason by acquiring Jordan Poole and Saddiq Bey after gathering extensive positive intel on the former Warriors and Wizards guard, according to Keith Smith of Spotrac.
On July 6, the Pelicans completed a three-team deal with the Wizards and Rockets to bring Poole, Bey, and rookie Micah Peavy to New Orleans. In exchange, the Wizards received CJ McCollum, Kelly Olynyk, Cam Whitmore, and a future second-round pick, while the Rockets acquired two second-round selections.
Speaking to Smith, a Pelicans front office executive revealed that Poole’s durability and presence on the floor were central to their decision. “He’s always out there,” the executive said. “And all of our intel was really positive for his impact with a really young Wizards team. We’re excited to have him.”
The 26-year-old Poole averaged 20.5 points, 4.5 assists, and 3.0 rebounds last season with Washington while shooting 43.2 percent from the field and 37.8 percent from three-point range. His scoring ability and offensive creativity stood out despite the Wizards’ struggles in the standings.
Poole is entering the third year of a four-year, $128 million contract, making him one of the highest-paid players on New Orleans’ roster. He previously won an NBA championship with Golden State in 2022 and brings playoff experience and scoring depth to the Pelicans’ backcourt.
The Pelicans also valued Poole’s consistency compared to their injury-prone lineup in recent seasons. “It’s no secret our team has had a lot of trouble staying healthy,” the executive told Smith. “We felt like we had to have more depth. That’s what this offseason was about.”
Along with Poole, New Orleans added Saddiq Bey, another 26-year-old forward who averaged 13.7 points and 6.5 rebounds last year with Atlanta before missing the end of the season due to injury. Bey’s acquisition, along with veteran Kevon Looney and the draft additions, was also aimed at strengthening the team’s depth.
