Jordan Poole: Is His Time with the Pelicans Over?
The New Orleans Pelicans are facing a tough end to the season, currently sitting at 25-49 after a recent loss to the Detroit Pistons. While the record is concerning, the focus is shifting towards evaluating the team’s future and identifying key players for next season. A recent development has cast a significant shadow over the future of guard Jordan Poole.
Poole’s Recent Benchings Raise Questions
Despite Trey Murphy III being sidelined with an ankle sprain, Jordan Poole has been a consistent healthy scratch, failing to crack the rotation under Head Coach James Borrego. This is particularly noteworthy given the recent inclusion of Jordan Hawkins in the rotation for the first time since January. The fact that Poole couldn’t secure playing time, even during a game where the Pelicans struggled offensively, speaks volumes.
Jordan Hawkins’ Emergence
Hawkins, who had previously struggled to find his footing in New Orleans, seized his opportunity on Thursday, shooting 3-for-3 from three-point range for nine points in 22 minutes. This performance could be a strategic move by Coach Borrego to showcase Hawkins’ potential, either to build his confidence for next season or to increase his trade value during the offseason. It’s a stark contrast to Poole’s situation.
A Fall From Grace
This is a significant downturn for Poole, who was once a vital contributor to the Golden State Warriors’ championship run. Now, he finds himself completely out of the rotation on a team with limited playoff aspirations. His recent playing time has been minimal – only two games in March where he shot 4-for-15 from the field and 1-for-10 from three, totaling just nine points in 35 minutes. Prior to that, he was a coach’s decision for nine consecutive games leading up to the All-Star break.
The Contract Complication
Even if the Pelicans have decided Poole isn’t part of their long-term plans, his contract presents a major hurdle. He’s due $34 million next season, a significant sum that will make him difficult to trade. While the contract expires in the 2027 offseason, finding a team willing to absorb that salary without receiving substantial assets in return will be a challenge. The Pelicans are unlikely to want to give up additional draft picks to facilitate a trade.
Potential Solutions: Buyout or Trade?
A buyout could be a potential solution, but it would likely come at a cost to Poole. Regardless of the path the Pelicans take, it’s becoming increasingly clear that Jordan Poole’s time in New Orleans is nearing its end. The emergence of Hawkins and the financial constraints surrounding Poole’s contract suggest a parting of ways is inevitable.
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