With NBA media day officially underway, the New Orleans Pelicans opened things up with a press conference from head coach Willie Green.
During his media availability, he spoke about Zion Williamson and the expectations he had for him, discussed the Pelicans' rookies, and shared the bond he has built with Joe Dumars. However, what really stood out to me the most was the comments he made about newly acquired guard Jordan Poole.
Green spoke about how Poole joining the Pelicans could be a recipe for success.
"We believe we are getting Jordan at just the right opportunity, at just the right moment in his career. He is a guy that wants it."
These comments from Green are really encouraging, especially with Poole expected to be the team's starting point to open the season, with Dejounte Murray still sidelined with injury.
Following Green's press conference, Trey Murphy III was the next person to speak to the media, and he continued the praise of Jordan Poole with these comments.
"I heard a ball bouncing when I got here this morning for physicals. JP was working out on the court already... I know he really takes it seriously... It makes me think I have to work harder"
To hear a pillar of this franchise like Murphy III back Green's comment with even more praise for Poole and his work ethic suggests a big season is on the horizon for JP in 2025-26.
The numbers back up Willie's claims too
After a tough first year in Washington, Poole bounced back in a big way last season, having a career year, posting averages of 20.5 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 4.5 assists in just 29.4 minutes a game. On top of his scoring, rebounding, and passing stats looking great, he also took a significant step as a three-point shooter. He ranked fifth in three-point attempts per game (9.1) and shot a strong 37.8% from beyond the arc.
After spending two years in Washington, which was consistently a bottom 5 team the last couple of seasons, coming to New Orleans is a nice change of pace. He can now get back to playing competitive winning basketball, something he hasn't been able to do since his time in Golden State with the Warriors.
At 26 years old, coming off a career year, Poole really is coming to New Orleans at the right time and is poised to make a huge impact in year one. With everyone praising his work ethic and dedication to improving his game, we may even see him take another step and build off a great 2024-25 season.
I've always been a fan of the addition of Poole, and am now an even bigger fan after hearing the comments both Murphy III and Green made about him.