During the trade season, the Dub Nation was mad that the management decided to trade a young Jordan Poole for Chris Paul. Many concerns were raised and fingers pointed at the untimely decision. But looking at the Golden State Warriors now, it has become clear that Chris Paul’s presence off the bench has been very valuable. With so much negativity and struggles inside, the Warriors bench unit has been a beacon of hope. But Steve Kerr is not one to forget.

Ahead of the Warriors-Wizards matchup on Friday, Kerr gives Jordan Poole his flowers.

Coach Kerr gives Jordan Poole props

Coach Kerr says, ” I’m excited for him because I know our fans are going to give him an enormous ovation. And he deserves that. He’s a champion. We don’t win that championship without Jordan.” The Warriors had all hands on deck for their 2022 championship win.

During his four seasons with the Golden State, Poole had averaged 15.8 points, 3.4 assists, and 2.6 rebounds per game in 266 games. His 2022 playoff stats are no less impressive either –  17.0 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game.

Statmuse has even compiled a stat sheet of ‘Poole Party’ in full effect in the absence of Stephen Curry in the 2022-23 season. He averaged 26.1 points, 5.0 assists, and 2.8 rebounds in 26 games without Steph. So Kerr’s belief in the Dubs fans and Poole is understandable. But will this hurt Draymond Green? After all, one reason for his trade was the issues between the pair of them.

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The infamous Dray-Poole punch

October 5, 2022. The Athletic had reported a physical altercation between the rising star, Jordan Poole, and veteran, Draymond Green. But it was TMZ that stole the show when the video that showed Poole getting a right hand to his jaw from his self-proclaimed mentor, Green was released.

Since then, nothing has gone right among the Warriors. The young guard, who was called the Splash Descendant, Splash Nephew, and the next Stephen Curry, suddenly saw a dip in his performance. Despite signing a four-year $140 million extension, the “trust” was broken, as Kerr aptly described their situation post the Poole trade.

Steve Kerr is a coach who has always spoken for his veterans and this season was probably the most of that support the GSW veterans saw. It was especially true in Dray’s case, as well. With so many excuses made for Green, his recent actions have definitely pushed Kerr into making some hard decisions.

And now, with the Warriors coach openly complimenting Poole amidst Draymond’s suspension, it might hit him hard. Either way, Kerr surely knows to give credit where it’s due. And there’s no reason to think that Jordan Poole will get emotional at the warm welcome he might get from the Warriors and forget to pour shots.

Friday’s match will be very interesting!

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