While Washington Wizards member Jordan Poole added to his turnover collection Sunday night against the Phoenix Suns, this time his turnovers were extended. When the Wizards trailed 110-106 with more than 20 seconds left, Poole tried to hit a three-pointer, but predictably missed.
Poole's move is very unwise. He lost his balance and kicked off a jumper that would have been difficult to make if it wasn't Stephen Curry. Had he not taken the 3-pointer, he would have had a very clear chance to drive to the rim, which would have brought the score to just two points with about 20 seconds left.
The Wizards still have timeouts left, and if he drives to the basket and scores, we'll see a very interesting ending. Even if we assume the coaching staff's plan is to hit a quick 3-pointer, he could be looking for a better shot.
There was no way a shot like this would go in, especially since Poole's shooting performance that night was terrible. He scored 14 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists and 1 steal at the end of the game, but he shot only 5-for-17 from the field and 2-for-9 from three-point range. Due in part to his woes and this shot, the Wizards lost 112-108, dropping their record to 4-21.
Moreover, Poole may have suffered an injury in the third quarter. He tried to sell a ball after a shot and fell to the ground, then on the next possession he slipped in the same spot due to his sweat on the court.
We have seen players suffer sudden injuries in these types of situations, but luckily Poole did not suffer any serious injuries. But this episode will be added to his set of failures.
Chandler Parsons expresses dissatisfaction with Jordan Poole
There seems to be no end to Poole's poor play. There was also an incident earlier this season that raised eyebrows when he chose not to shoot an open jump shot, instead opting for a blocked layup. After seeing this, former NBA player Chandler Parsons said that Poole was young, immature, and arrogant.
Parsons's point is hard to refute. High expectations were placed on Poole but he has disappointed everyone at this stage. He no longer seems like a potential franchise anchor but an expendable member of Washington's roster.
Incredibly, Poole's value was at its highest just over a year ago when he was helping the Golden State Warriors win the 2022 NBA championship. Now, his value may be at its lowest point, which shows how quickly things can change.
Kyle Kuzma talks about Jordan Poole's slow start
Poole is currently averaging 16.9 points, 2.6 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 1.1 steals and 0.3 blocks per game while shooting 40.9% from 3-point range. is 29.9%. I don’t think anyone expected him to be in such serious trouble, teammate Kyle Kuzma weighed in on Poole’s slow start in Washington.
"It's difficult when you transition from the third or fourth option. I can say that because I've been there. You go into a new environment and you become more of the center of attention, and that has Times are difficult. It's a lot of responsibility. You have to be able to perform at a high level and get your teammates involved."
Maybe Poole's performance will get better as time goes on. But that doesn't change his lackadaisical attitude on the court, which is what needs to change in the first place.
