When the Warriors sent Jordan Poole to the G League bubble in the first half of the NBA season, they did so hoping that the 21-year-old point guard could gain valuable experience that would help them when he returned to the team.
Since his return, it appears that the player of the first round of 2019 has done just that.
Poole shone in the Warriors’ 108-94 victory over the humble Houston Rockets on Wednesday, setting the game’s record with 23 points in 24 minutes. Since it was removed from the Orlando, Florida bubble, Michigan’s product has averaged 18 points per game, with a field goal percentage of 55.3 and a 42.3 percentage of land from 3 points.
His game caught the attention of many, especially coach Steve Kerr.
“He’s a different guy,” said Kerr in 95.7 The Game’s “Damon, Ratto & Kolsky” on Thursday. “There is definitely a big difference in your game, in your level of comfort and confidence.
“What I love is that he has gained that confidence, that level of comfort. He has been in the gym almost every day since the pandemic started, a year ago. He really understood what was at stake and how he had to work hard, and he put the work and the results here are really showing. Very happy for him and happy for us. “
Poole’s impressive game even passed on to his teammates, with Draymond Green noting the young guard’s confidence as well.
“Trust. It’s all about trust,” said Green after Wednesday’s victory. “He’s kicking the ball with a lot of confidence. He’s making quick decisions. And he is … just better. “
Poole’s rise could not come at a more opportune time for the Warriors. Golden State should be without Steph Curry and Kelly Oubre Jr. in both games during their next series against the Memphis Grizzlies. Curry is in doubt for the games after suffering a coccyx injury in the third quarter on Wednesday, while Oubre Jr. is dealing with a pain in his foot.
Poole, along with Nico Mannion and Brad Wanamaker, will have to step up in two critical games for the Warriors. Kerr noted that he does not know who will start in Curry’s place if the NBA double-time MVP is officially discarded, but said the aforementioned trio should have plenty of action anyway.
“You will definitely see all three,” said Kerr. “It’s just a matter of how we want to start and the combinations we want to see outside the bank.”
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Poole is probably the likely favorite. His versatile set of offensive skills, along with the ability to create his own kicks, gave him an advantage during each offensive possession he was in the hardwood.
Poole is an offensive threat and an ace. He can drive to the edge, give a shot to his teammates, or shoot from just about anywhere beyond the bow.
With two games likely to be eliminated on Friday, the Warriors need Poole to continue exactly what he has been doing, and it seems that Kerr believes this is reasonable.
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