Washington Wizards: 3 areas where Jordan Poole has to improve

The Washington Wizards are about to head into the 2023-24 season with a completely revamped roster. Instead of Bradley Beal and Kristaps Porzingis, the Wizards have a younger, more dynamic, and more exciting team. On the new-look Wizards, the main offensive engines are expected to be Kyle Kuzma and Jordan Poole. Poole has been an electrifying scorer in his young career, but there are still important parts of his game that needs improvement.

Poole was one of only two Warriors that played in every game last season. Not only was his availability impressive, but he also started in 43 games. His ability to play next to other stars made him the first option to come into the lineup whether it is Andrew Wiggins, Steph Curry, or Klay Thompson that were missing that game.

Poole was not as efficient or effective last season compared to the year prior. In the breakout season in 2021-22, Poole was an integral part of the Warriors’ championship run. He averaged 18.5 points and 4 assists per game on above-average 60% true shooting. He managed to maintain his scoring volume and increase his efficiency in the playoffs.

The 2022-23 season wasn’t as rosy for Poole. He increased his scoring average to 20.4 but all of his shooting splits, 2-point, 3-point, and free-throw accuracy were all worse compared to the prior year. He struggled immensely in the playoffs, losing some of his minutes in the rotation to finish the postseason with averages of 10.3 points, 3.5 assists on an awful 45% true shooting.

It is hard to imagine the incident where his teammate Draymond Green punched Poole in the preseason training camp wouldn’t have had an impact on Poole’s psyche and overall performance.

The great news for the Washington Wizards is that they were able to acquire Poole when his value was at its nadir. After the 2022 season, it would have been close to impossible for Washington to land Poole following his impressive performance.

Jordan Poole may have needed a fresh start and a bigger role without the shadow of Steph Curry and the Golden State dynasty. He came to the right place. The Wizards will entrust him with the ball, and it will be up to Poole to show what he is capable of. To fully blossom into the star the Wizards are hoping for, he needs to expand his game in these three areas.