The Jordan Poole experience in Washington was quite the ride for an abundance of reasons.
Between major offensive performances, unreal shot-making, nights where his inefficiency stood out and others where his decision-making simply caused frustration stemming from the coaching staff to the fans at home.
Regardless, there's no doubt that while having the Michigan product on your team can cause a roller coaster ride of emotions, it rarely translates to winning.
Unfortunately for the New Orleans Pelicans, they're quickly learning the harsh reality behind not only why the Wizards elected to move on from the guard, but also why they struggled to find a trade partner willing to take on the challenge Poole's lucrative contract brought with it.
Jordan Poole already being shopped by Pelicans
There's no denying that Poole's second season in Washington was drastically better than his first year in the DMV, especially considering year one ended in interim head coach at the time, Brian Keefe, benching the playmaker.
In year two, the guard managed to serve as the Wizards' primary ball handler and starting point guard and while the inconsistencies remained, Washington did a great job disguising the concerns surrounding his game.
Mix that with the fact that New Orleans was eager to move on from the expiring contract of CJ McCollum to get younger in the backcourt, Washington jumped at the possibility to offload Poole's contract
Fast forward to now, reports suggest that the Pelicans are already shopping Poole as the NBA trade deadline looms and for good reason.
The Pelicans have removed Jordan Poole from the rotation and plan to dangle him in trade talks, per @WillGuillory.
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) January 29, 2026
He’s shooting 37% from the field this season and has received two straight DNP-CDs. pic.twitter.com/oqeKCRmHa6
Poole is in the midst of a career-worst season, averaging 14.5 points, 3.1 assists and 1.8 rebounds shooting an abysmal 37.0% from field goal range and 33.6% from beyond the arc.
Not only has Poole's poor play led to New Orleans removing the guard from their starting lineup, but he's now found himself victim of back-to-back DNP's as the Pelicans make their intention to move on clear.
All that to say, while Poole may offer an offensive spark in some scenarios, his lackluster defense, questionable decision-making and selfishness at times hinders winning.
In Golden State, the exceptional play of a Steve Kerr-led team with future Hall-of-Famer Stephen Curry, sharpshooter Klay Thompson and point forward Draymond Green allowed for the team to overcome the inconsistencies Poole offers.
However, his desire for individual success led to his departure from the Warriors and that similar issue helped the Wizards realize a long-term fit was unlikely.
Now, the Pelicans find themselves in the same situation.
