The impact of the NBA trade deadline is still making waves throughout the Golden State Warriors. The Dubs sent out six players via trade before the deadline passed, overhauling their roster for the second half of the season.
With several players moved, the Warriors have had to recreate their rotation with new players getting increased roles. One of those players is rookie Jordan Poole.
Trading D’Angelo Russell has left the Warriors without not only their starting point guard but their leading playmaker. Without Russell, Steve Kerr has leaned on rookie Ky Bowman, but against the Phoenix Suns, Poole got an opportunity to start at point guard.
Lineup change: Jordan Poole will start at point guard tonight for the Warriors. He’s been taking over increasing playmaking duties since Russell trade.
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) February 13, 2020
Poole has had an up and down rookie season. However, in his last three games, Poole’s played 22 or more minutes and scored in double figures off the bench in each. Against the Miami Heat, Poole showed off his ability to get to the line, knocking down six free throws on six attempts. Poole added six boards and two assists against Miami.
With the Warriors record sitting at the bottom of the Western Conference, the rest of the season will be about development. Giving Poole a chance to take over ball-handling opportunities could give the 20-year-old a boost in confidence during his rookie year. Poole at the helm of the offense will also provide Golden State a better look at finding the right role for the former Michigan Wolverine in the future.