5 NBA players primed for a bounce-back season in 2023
By Lior Lampert
NBA players primed for a bounce-back season: 3. Jordan Poole
Another player who should be excited for a change of scenery — Jordan Poole was sent to the Wizards in exchange for Hall of Fame point guard, Chris Paul. While it hasn’t been openly stated, this trade feels like it was a result of the turbulent season filled with drama surrounding Poole and Draymond Green. Poole and Green got into an altercation before the season even began and the friction seemingly lingered until the Warriors decided to send Poole to the Wizards.
Following the Wizards’ decision to trade Bradley Beal, Poole is officially the guy in Washington. He averaged 20 points per game off the bench in Golden State last season while competing with Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Andrew Wiggins, and more for offensive touches. Now, he is going to be the primary creator and scorer on a rebuilding Wizards team, where he will have the ultimate green light to do whatever he wants.
Off-court drama aside, it wasn’t too long ago that Poole was viewed as the heir apparent to the Splash Brothers in Golden State while playing a major role in their 2022 NBA Championship. He was ultimately rewarded with a four-year, $128 million contract for his efforts and potential. Poole is a dynamic scorer and shot-creator with deep 3-point range and is capable of putting the ball on the floor. His ability to beat you in various ways off the dribble is a threat that defenders need to pay attention to before they end up on the receiving end of a highlight reel.
A fresh start for Poole, it wouldn’t be shocking to see him average 25 points per game or more in his first season with the Wizards