In an appearance on the “Some Dude Show” podcast, former Lakers swingman Kyle Kuzma came to the defense of his new teammate Jordan Poole, who was traded to the Wizards back in June of this year. Speaking on Poole’s run with the Warriors, and how his exit played out, Kuzma said that his teammate was “misunderstood” by the public eye.
“Super misunderstood. You may look at him and see him at Golden State and be like, ‘Ok, he might be a little immature’ but he’s one of the most professional athletes I’ve been around,” said Kuz. “Like, he’s in the gym. He works, he’s focused… we call each other after the game and just talk about the game. Not many people are doing that in this era of the NBA. He’s super misunderstood, super talented…”
just spoke about Jordan Poole with Kuz… hibachi no veggies! 👩🏽🍳🪣🪣🔥 https://t.co/PiT1Bp5C5k pic.twitter.com/MrUD0c2avJ
— 73-9 and THEY LIED (@CuffsTheLegend) October 19, 2023
Jordan Poole averaged 20.4 points per game for the Warriors last season though after a scuffle with Draymond Green during pre-season practice, his role with the team was never the same again. In the process, his reputation around the league hit all-time lows until he was finally traded to the Wizards this summer. Now, Poole has the chance to start over with a fresh slate with teammates who are ready to have his back every step of the way.
What Happened In Golden State?
Ultimately, we may never know the full story between Jordan Poole and his former team. Back in 2021, Poole was crucial to helping the Warriors win a title and it earned him a 4 year, $128 million contract that summer. It wasn’t until Draymond’s infamous “punch” that the cracks began to show. Apparently, Poole triggered Draymond with some trash talk during a play, and it prompted the multiple-time champion to punch his teammate in the face, which is reported to have knocked him out.
On the court, Poole lost his focus and chemistry with the veterans which resulted in a season-long theme of inconsistency. Off the court, Poole made it clear that he wasn’t on the best of terms with the organization and specifically with Draymond, who he called an “expensive backpack” for Stephen Curry as recently as last month. So, between “the punch” and a massively disappointing performance in the playoffs, it was virtually a lock that Poole was going to be traded… but the jury is still out on whether he can do something more with the Wizards.
A Fresh Start For Jordan Poole
The Wizards are expected to start Poole alongside Kyle Kuzma and other young pieces this season. Poole, 24, will play a prominent role in the offense as, arguably, the team’s best perimeter shooter but he could be asked to take on more. In the backcourt, Jordan will likely handle much of the playmaking duties and it will be him who leads the offense and sets the tone for his team on that end of the floor.
While this experience is vastly different than what he had in Golden State, it could be the best thing for his career right now. With Poole, Kuzma, and veteran guard Tyus Jones, the Wizards do have some interesting pieces but nobody is expecting them to compete. So, in a pressure-free environment, Jordan Poole may be able to find his niche and finally live up to his potential.
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