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In the ever-evolving landscape of the NBA, the rise of a new star often comes with the departure of a seasoned veteran. However, the Golden State Warriors went the opposite route as they traded 24-year-old Jordan Poole for 38-year-old Chris Paul. The trade brought to light a prophetic conversation where NBA veteran Paul George predicted the new Washington Wizards star’s fate. The conversation, which took place days before the trade, now seems eerily prescient.

While the Warriors had an overall poor season, Poole’s disappointing performances came under the scanner. After signing a $140 million extension last year, more was expected of Poole. However, he regressed after the summer camp altercation with Draymond Green. But this trade might be just what Poole needed.

Paul George showered Jordan Poole with praise

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The Washington Wizards?agreed to trade Chris Paul to the Warriors for Jordan Poole ahead of the Draft last night. This move has sparked a flurry of discussion among fans and analysts alike. Poole will now get to run the offense in the capital and if Paul George’s prediction proves to be right, the sky is the limit for the 24-year-old.

USA Today via Reuters

During one of the episodes of his podcast, George was discussing the potential of role players in the NBA to become leading figures if given the right opportunity. When asked to name a player who could fit this description, George didn’t hesitate in naming Jordan Poole. “Jordan Poole, if he goes anywhere else, he’s going to be a star. He is a star in his own right. He just doesn’t have the same opportunity that he would have somewhere else.??

Jordan Poole, selected as the 28th overall pick in the 2019 NBA draft, made a significant impact on the Golden State Warriors during his initial two seasons. In the 2022-2023 season, he consistently delivered exceptional performances, averaging an impressive 24.6 points per game. However, his performances regressed in the postseason and he was often blamed for the Warriors’ losses. This trade might be a blessing in disguise.

A new chapter for Poole and Paul with their new teams

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With the Wizards, Poole will take on a more prominent role and get to showcase his skills as the primary ball handler. He will step into the starting shooting guard spot recently vacated by Bradley Beal. Poole’s incredible playmaking and streaky shooting will be a welcome addition to the Wizards’ roster.?

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On the other hand, the addition of Paul to the Warriors roster offers the team an opportunity to enhance their financial flexibility for future seasons. While Paul is set to earn approximately $31 million in the upcoming season, his contract doesn’t include any guaranteed commitments beyond that point. It’s a clear trade-off, but given the Warriors’ status as title contenders for the upcoming season, Paul at 38, who has yet to secure a championship, could finally have his long-awaited chance.

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Jordan Poole’s trade to the Washington Wizards has given him the opportunity to shine as a lead scorer and prove Paul George’s prediction right. Given his portfolio, he indeed has the potential to become a star player in the NBA. It will be interesting to see how both the players develop with their new teams!?