Since Warriors GM Bob Meyers drafted Jordan Poole 28th overall in the 2019 NBA Draft, the former Michigan Wolverine’s game and skill set has grown exponentially.
Poole has put it all together during the Warriors’ playoff run to the Western Conference Finals, averaging 19.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game. Through 11 career playoff games, Poole has logged at least 30 points twice, scoring a then playoff career-high 30 points in his first playoff game against Denver. Poole eclipsed that mark in the second round, scoring 31 points in a Game 1 win of the Memphis-Golden State series.
The court is Jordan Poole's canvas.
— SLAM (@SLAMonline) April 19, 2022
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“We saw the potential. But when we Draft players [late in the first round], realistically, it’s really hard to know where it’s going to go. We thought it was possible, but we didn’t know he would reach it. But credit to him and the coaching staff that put the time in to perfect his craft. I’m happy for him that he’s showcasing this on a big stage, showing his skillset and fitting in with guys that are leading him.” Meyers said.
The development of Poole has made Meyers look good once again. Especially since he was able to get Poole so late in the draft, in his third season in the NBA, Poole has proven he can be the third Splash Brother and a safety valve for the Dubs when Stephen Curry or Klay Thompson is struggling.
“He’s been great, and I don’t know if we’d be where we are without him. It’ll be interesting to see where it all keeps going. It’s a great experience, but he’s never been in the playoffs before this year. That’s what you want from any young player — to taste the playoffs and get a sense of it. A lot of players play a long career and don’t get this far. For him to be this young and get an opportunity, it’s really very valuable.”
Love everything about this play, Jordan Poole is fun to watch.
— SLAM (@SLAMonline) May 8, 2022
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Because Poole has made himself so indispensable, he’s been able to be a part of the Warriors’ most efficient small-ball lineup featuring Curry, Thompson, himself, Andrew Wiggins, and Draymond Green.
When it comes to Poole’s next step, that’ll be seen when the Warriors take on the Dallas Mavericks in the Western Conference Finals. It bodes well that regardless of starting or coming off the bench, heavy workload or not, Poole remains consistent in being a shot-creator and playmaker alongside the Warriors’ Big 3. When Meyers was asked where he sees Poole going from here, he just stated the Warriors had needed him, and he’s answered the call to perform every time.
“Each round gets harder, but it’s all informative. You look for consistency, confidence, and skill. The playoffs are the most informative time of the year. You can’t hide during the playoffs. It’s just too competitive, too physical, and too high level. As an executive, it’s the best time to evaluate your team, assuming that you are healthy. If you don’t make it to the playoffs, it’s hard to know much. But if you do, it’s fantastic because you get to see what’s what. With Jordan, it’s another chance to watch him grow. He’s answered the bell: Started, not started, played big minutes, played fewer minutes. Credit to him for always being ready. We’re going to definitely need him in this round, and however far we can go.”
