Several days ago, the Golden State Warriors traded Jordan Poole to the Washington Wizards in exchange for Chris Paul. Although rumors speculated that Chris Paul would be rerouted from the Wizards to the Clippers, the Warriors emerged as unlikely suitors. Similarly, Jordan Poole’s departure from the Warriors seemed imminent. 

It is no secret that Poole felt estranged from the Warriors organization early on in the season. This tension was precipitated by a scuffle between Poole and Draymond Green, in which Green infamously punched Poole in the face. The clash between the two players in a private practice was caught on camera and disseminated to the public, further exacerbating the situation. Both players admitted at the conclusion of their season that the incident certainly lingered within the organization and impacted the team’s chemistry. Poole was also heavily criticized for his lackluster playoff performance and considering his hefty contract, a trade was not surprising. 

Poole’s arrival to Washington provides a refreshing energy to the city. Both Bradley Beal and Kristaps Porzingis have recently been traded from the Wizards. Poole now has the license to play as his true self without any limitations. His flashy playstyle and alluring swagger have the capacity to revitalize the Wizards organization. While I have concerns about their success this season in terms of wins, I am excited to see the player that Poole becomes in Washington. From a long-run perspective, the Warriors decision to trade Poole for Paul was irrational. Poole is nearly 15 years younger than Paul and has much more basketball left to play. This is yet another testament to the win-now mentality that has pervaded the league. However, Paul is a bonafide winner and competitor. He has proved time and again that regardless of where he plays, he can and will elevate the team to another level. His experience and expertise with the game of basketball provides the Warriors with another decorated guard. He will also bring a virtually unstoppable pick and roll scheme to the Warriors - an aspect the team needs to improve upon. Golden State now contains a roster full of veterans with distinguished basketball IQs. 

Overall, I am an advocate for this trade. At this stage of his career, it would be illogical for Paul to remain on the Wizards roster. He deserves to play for a contender like Golden State. Concerning Poole, he desperately needed a fresh start with a team that embraced his play style. The Wizards can do just that for him.