Rarely does it feel like an interaction involving ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins and the New Orleans Pelicans ends with positivity, but that is exactly what happened recently as Perkins offered some kind words surrounding Jordan Poole’s fit with the team.
The crew of the “Road Trippin’” podcast, including Perkins, started talking about the incident a couple of years ago in which Poole was punched at practice by then-Golden State Warriors teammate Draymond Green. The guard was eventually traded away after the season, but that moment continues to follow him.
"Over the last two to three years, Poole has been remembered not as an NBA champion. But as a guy that was –– near knocked out by Draymond,” said Perkins.
Poole’s two seasons with the Washington Wizards after that incident were not what he needed to distance himself from his reputation, especially his first year. Despite starting on a team that had fewer mouths to feed, both his production and efficiency dropped.
The good news is that things started to go in the right direction during year two with the Wizards. He scored more, drew more fouls and shot better from deep. Washington wasn’t winning, but Poole looked better than he had in years.
Now, the former NBA Champion will change lanes again and head to a Pelicans offense that needs a sparkplug like him on offense when Zion Williamson isn’t on the court.
"Personally, I think he's going to do well with [New Orleans] this year. I really do. A new scenery, new guys in the front office with Joe Dumars and Troy Weaver, it could work," added Perkins.
The Pelicans traded CJ McCollum, Kelly Olynyk and a second-round pick to the Wizards in exchange for Poole, Saddiq Bey and the No. 40 overall pick in the 2025 NBA draft (used to select Micah Peavy).
In 2024, New Orleans scored the sixth-fewest points per game. They had an average pace and didn’t have great playmaking on display. Poole should help speed things up, as it is clear that the Pelicans want to go in a different direction on offense.
It will take some growth both on-and-off the court for Poole to get away from the stigma of his past, but that is the opportunity ahead of him with the Pelicans. The people of New Orleans won’t care about the punch if he can provide for the team.
"I just wish he'd get his stuff together, take basketball more seriously, more consistently, and really show us what he can do. That's why I think New Orleans will be great for him," continued Perkins.
Many people forget, just because he has been such a talked-about player for years, that Poole is still just entering his age-26 season in the NBA. There is plenty of time for him to take another step in his career.
The former Michigan Wolverine looked better when he wasn’t the only one that teams had to worry about on offense. It will be intriguing to watch what the team looks like with both Poole and Williamson on the court, as it could be a partnership that benefits both sides.