While the Warriors might be sighing in relief that they no longer have the hefty $140 million contract of Jordan Poole to worry about, did they really have to pay every single penny to the 25-year-old? The answer is a simple No. But that still doesn’t take away from the fact that the young guard does make an average of $32 million annually. And that might prove difficult for the Dubs, especially given that the team is currently hard-capped at the first apron.

Anyway, without further ado, let’s take a closer look at his contract.

Jordan Poole’s guaranteed earnings and incentive structure

The NBA champ will receive a guaranteed $123,000,000 over four years, which can potentially increase to $140,000,000 based on the incentives. However, the chances of Poole getting every dollar out of the $17 million in incentives are rather slim. So, what are the conditions for him to obtain some of it?

The first layer is based on the number of games played and additional performance milestones.

• He will earn an extra $250,000 if he participates in at least 65 regular-season games and the team advances to the first round of the playoffs.
• The Michigan alum will receive another $250,000 bonus if they play a minimum of 65 regular-season games and if the team reaches the second round of the playoffs.
• Jordan will secure an additional $250,000 if he plays 65 games, and the team makes it to the conference finals.
• Reaching the NBA Finals with at least 65 games played will also trigger a $250,000 bonus.
• Lastly, Poole can earn $250,000 if he participates in 65 regular-season games and the team achieves a minimum of 52 wins during the regular season.

An interesting aspect here is that the league considered it as ‘likely incentives,’ meaning that they do not count against the actual tax bill unless he meets the conditions specified. However, they come to just $1.25 million of the additional $4.25 million he could earn in a season. So, what are the rest of the criteria?

• The NBA MVP title will result in Jordan Poole earning an additional $1 million.
• An extra $1 million bonus applies if he secures the Defensive Player of the Year award.
• A $500,000 bonus is granted if the 2019 first-round pick is named to any of the three All-NBA teams.
• And finally, the 6’4 guard will receive another $500,000 if selected to either of the two All-Defensive teams.

Clearly, the $4.25M depends on Poole’s individual excellence on the court, both offensively and defensively. And again, since this is considered ‘unlikely,’ it does not count against the initial salary cap.

Well, that’s that about his contract. So, how about we go to the second part? You know, just in case.

NBA teams that could benefit from Poole’s skillset

Jordan Poole was off to a strong start in the Wizards‘ season opener against the Celtics. Though Washington lost 102-122, Poole had a team-high 26 points to go along with four assists and one rebound while shooting 52.9% from the field and 54.5% from the three; numbers that we have yet to see from the promising youngster.

That said, with the right team, there is no doubt that Jordan Poole can thrive. And if he were to become available, there might be a few teams that could leverage his skills. Teams lacking dynamic scoring off the bench or secondary playmaking could consider Poole. Notably, the Orlando Magic, rebuilding and seeking shooters, or the Charlotte Hornets, in need of backcourt support for LaMelo Ball, may fit well. Another option is the Miami Heat, which could use his shot creation despite his defensive weaknesses.

In the right environment, Jordan’s scoring ability and playmaking could become a pivotal asset, especially for teams in need of a dynamic offensive contributor. As he continues to develop, providing him opportunities to refine his skills and make a significant impact in the league could work well for any teams interested in him. Even if it is his current organization.