The Washington Wizards are giving Jordan Poole the proper platform to prove he can be a star. However, this does not mean the team is not considering sending the NBA champion guard to another team at some point.
Poole is living up to expectations, second for the Wizards in points per game. But rather than make him a key piece of the future, Washington could use the 24-year-old player's efforts in another way - to market him to other teams.
In the eyes of NBA Insider Marc Stein, Poole will likely become a trade chip rather than a cornerstone player.
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Regardless of what the future holds, it appears Poole could care less. He is taking advantage of the opportunity of being the go-to guy with the Wizards for now.
"Obviously, I wanted to be in a position to have my own team," Poole told Fischer via NBC Sports. "Luckily, I'm able to do that so young, after learning from some of the best."
Poole could be moved before the February NBA trade deadline. One team linked to him is the Charlotte Hornets, now under new management after Michael Jordan sold his share.
However, there are some factors that the Hornets need to consider before pushing for a Jordan Poole trade.
Is Poole fit for Buzz City?
The Hornets have Terry Rozier, Nick Smith, and Ish Smith manning the backcourt. Without question, Poole could be a good upgrade.
Some of these names are likely to be added to a trade package for Poole. Future picks are likely to be included, a familiar move that hints at another rebuilding phase coming soon in Washington, SI.com reported.
Will Poole jive with Brandon Miller?
The player who has been gaining a lot of attention in Charlotte is rookie Brandon Miler. He is already proving to be a solid addition, showing he is ripe for the NBA.
But adding Poole could raise questions such as ball-sharing. Although Poole is not known as a ball-hog, connecting with Miller will be vital.
Both could find common ground and be the Hornets' new tandem. But as far as making the Hornets better, much remains to be seen.
Are Hornets ready for Poole's tantrums?
Most know Poole ended up in Washington for his scuffle with Draymond Green. While most found fault in the 33-year-old veteran, Poole had issues with his teammates while still with the Golden State Warriors, the New York Post.
Is this a risk that the Hornets are willing to take?
It may not be relevant now with Poole focused on playing and helping the Wizards in whatever capacity. Sadly, Washington is not doing well this season, winning only two games thus far for a 2-11 win-loss card.
The Wizards have lost their last six games, the last of which was a 142-129 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks. Poole finished with a game-high 30 points, his highest scoring output and probably the best game he has had so far with Washington this season, CBS Sports reported.
Ironically, the Wizards face the Hornets in their next assignment on Wednesday, November 22. Expect the Hornets to pay close attention to Poole as they assess if the former Michigan Wolverine is a player worth pursuing.
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