The New Orleans Pelicans' first major move under President of Basketball Operations Joe Dumars was trading CJ McCollum and Kelly Olynyk to Washington in exchange for a package centered around Jordan Poole. When this move was made, many members of the media questioned it, as Poole's playstyle doesn't always translate to winning basketball games.
However, during the Pelicans media day, Poole spoke on his time with the Wizards and helped paint a clear picture of why Joe Dumars decided to acquire him.
"It was a cool experience because there were things I learned that I wouldn't have been able to learn my first 4 years. Incorporating all that knowledge to a team that wants to win... We're excited, a lot of fire in the locker room"
This quote makes it so clear as to why Dumars wanted to acquire JP from the Wizards. Poole has experience being a player on the end of the bench, a role player, an intricate piece on a championship team, and being the go-to guy, like he was last season in Washington. For Poole to experience this much just six years into his career is going to help him provide a wealth of knowledge and leadership to this young group.
It appears that JP is ready to step into a leadership role with New Orleans
Throughout his time with the Warriors, Poole had the opportunity to learn from some of the league's best leaders, including Steph Curry, current Pelican Kevon Looney, and Draymond Green. These three clearly passed on some of their leadership skills to Poole, which is why he was such an effective leader for the Wizards last season. The young core in Washington talked very highly of JP, especially rookie guard Bub Carrington, whom Poole kind of mentored.
Now the same stuff he did with the Wizards last season is part of his expectation with the Pelicans this season. They need him to be a leader in the locker room and on the floor, especially with him more than likely being the starting point guard on opening night. I really expect him to be someone who takes Jeremiah Fears under his wing and helps him become a pro in this league.
This is a role and responsibility that Poole appears to be comfortable with taking on, and it is probably part of the reason he has been in the gym and showing up to the facility as early as he has. JP wants to set a standard for the young players in the organization that in order to earn your spot, you have to put in the work.