The Golden State Warriors got a big break against the Houston Rockets. Although it took a Stephen Curry buzzer-beater to defeat the lowly, rebuilding team, they got a much-needed win to cleanse their vibes following a terrible home loss.
Jordan Poole was just as instrumental to the win as Curry. He scored 20 points on 7-15 shooting to post one of his more efficient shooting nights on the season. Good shooting nights have been a rarity for Poole since Klay Thompson returned from injury. Poole was moved to the Warriors' bench when the All-Star returned and has struggled to adapt.
Head coach Steve Kerr discussed moving Poole to a bench role for the Warriors and what his mindset should be. Per Anthony Slater of The Athletic:
Kerr on Poole’s shifting role: “Part of the message for Jordan is the same message the whole team gets. It doesn’t matter what your role is — play your ass off every night. Yes, it is hard to change your role in the middle of the season. But who cares? It’s your job. I thought he responded well tonight.”
Poole started for Golden State before Thompson returned, though he gets elevated back to the starting lineup when Thompson rests, as he did against Houston. He has been inconsistent in his reserve role, which can be brutal for a player whose contributions are almost always scoring.
The Warriors need Poole to step up, as he can bring a dynamic scoring element to their offense when Curry and Thompson rest. Especially with Draymond Green sidelined, Golden State needs all the help it can get.
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