Jordan Poole returned from an 18-game absence and praised the Pelicans’ team effort after Thursday’s 143-120 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers. “We got a win, home court, a lot of guys played well. I think we put ourselves in a position to be successful tonight,” Poole said.
The guard highlighted how James Borrego’s system benefits New Orleans’ speed and transition game. “We’re young, we’re fast, we like to get out in transition. We move around a lot. What Coach JB has implemented is huge for us,” Poole said, noting that ball movement allowed multiple players to step up offensively.
Poole discussed the challenges of sitting out early in the season due to a quadriceps injury. “I hated it. I didn’t like it at all, but I couldn’t do anything about it. I was just doing treatment, recovery 24 hours a day and pushing myself so I’d be ready to make an impact when I came back,” he said.
He credited his mindset for a strong return, stressing assertiveness on the court. “I feel like as soon as I knew I was ready to go out there and be me, I’d be ready to play. It was just good to be back out there with my guys tonight,” Poole said after contributing 22 points.
The Pelicans’ focus on attacking the paint and spacing the floor impressed Poole. “Luckily, that’s my play type. I’m able to be a threat from the perimeter, stretch the defense, and put pressure in transition,” he explained, noting that Bryce McGowens’ perfect 5-for-5 from three also helped open the floor.
Poole praised rookie Derik Queen’s development as a distributor. “With guys being injured, other players get opportunities to blossom. DQ has done a tremendous job handling the ball, passing, and learning the small things it takes to be good in the league,” Poole said.
The guard also highlighted the importance of crowd energy in New Orleans. “I know how important it is to have the crowd on our side. When we get a fast break or a transition three, you feel the energy rise, and it rattles the other team,” Poole said, underscoring the home-court advantage.
Finally, Poole acknowledged the contributions of McGowens in the win. “He has such a calm demeanor and plays the right way. He had a big game today and it was a big reason we won,” Poole said, praising the team’s collective effort in snapping a seven-game losing streak.
