Jordan Poole’s Pelicans Stint Reaches Low Point in Season’s Final Week
Jordan Poole was a conspicuous absence in the New Orleans rotation late in the season. The move underscored a difficult year for the Pelicans and raised fresh questions about his future with the franchise.
Benchings deepen late-season concerns
Against the Orlando Magic on Sunday, the Pelicans were missing Dejounte Murray and Trey Murphy. Herb Jones left after the first quarter and did not return.
Despite those absences, Poole recorded a DNP-Coach’s Decision. It was his third straight coach’s scratch. The decision came even as the team searched for offense.
Recent playing time and production
Poole has appeared in only four games since March 1. He logged 64 total minutes in those contests.
In that span he averaged 5.3 points per game and shot 24.1 percent from the field. The minimal minutes have limited any chance to regain rhythm.
Season profile and fit
This season Poole converted 36.5 percent of his field-goal attempts. His three-point rate was 32.6 percent.
Defensive struggles and inconsistent shotmaking compounded concerns. He has shown limited playmaking and questionable shot selection at times.
Impact on team performance
Cleaning the Glass data shows a plus-minus issue. New Orleans posted a -7 net rating with Poole on the floor.
That contrasts with a -3.7 net rating when he sat. Coaches cited the team’s improved results without him on the court.
Coaching choices and roster implications
Coach James Borrego opted to play Jordan Hawkins, Trey Alexander, Micah Peavy, and Hunter Dickinson over Poole in that contest. The selections signaled a clear rotation preference.
Some fans hoped Poole might play more during the season’s final week to rebuild momentum. The team chose not to pursue that route.
What this means going forward
Poole will finish having played in fewer than half the Pelicans’ games this season. Injuries played a part, but coaching decisions were decisive.
With Murray and Murphy expected back, his opportunities appear limited. Many believe this marks a low point in Jordan Poole’s Pelicans stint.
Filmogaz.com will monitor developments as the Pelicans evaluate roster moves this offseason.
