The Golden State Warriors are heading into the 2022-23 season with high hopes on their chances to retain their crown as NBA Champions. The key behind the continued success of the Warriors dynasty has been the emergence of young talent like Jordan Poole, who has established himself as one of the top young guards in the NBA.
Poole has a tall task ahead of him in terms of fighting with a fully healthy Klay Thompson to be Stephen Curry’s backcourt partner. The Warriors are likely to stick with the veteran Thompson, but the competition between the players has been ramping up since the start of preseason. Steve Kerr discussed the competition between the guards and the relationship Steph and Klay have with the young Poole.
“It’s healthy,” Kerr said. “Jordan now is part of the group. You have to earn that by performing in the playoffs. I think that’s where the vets will really embrace you. But at the same time, you gotta back it up every year. I think there’s a healthy vibe right now of Jordan feeling like he’s a big part of the group, but the older guys still having fun with him.” (h/t The Athetic)
It seems the vibes are great between Poole and the veteran guards of the Warriors. Cultivating a relationship with Curry and Thompson will be instrumental in his growth and will prepare him to eventually take the keys of the franchise when they retire.
Jordan Poole’s Long-Term Future With The Golden State Warriors
Poole is up for a contract extension, as are Thompson, Andrew Wiggins, and Draymond Green. The Warriors may not be able to afford to keep all the players on the roster with the salary issues. While Thompson’s free agency is still a year away, Wiggins, Draymond, and Poole could hit the market in 2023.
Poole is the youngest out of the lot and may have the highest future upside, but the Warriors don’t want to give up on their contention window just yet. It’s on Poole to have a breakout year in 2022-23 and ensure the Warriors can trust him to lead the franchise into the future.
