The Warriors have gotten out from under the Jordan Poole contract, but Guru thinks it’s at the expense of their championship hopes.
Golden State pulled off a blockbuster ahead of the draft Thursday, reportedly landing Chris Paul in a trade with the Wizards. According to ESPN, the Warriors are sending Poole, a 2030 first-round pick and a 2027 second-rounder to Washington in exchange for Paul – who was sent to the rebuilding Wizards in the Bradley Beal trade earlier this week.
Poole’s 2022-23 campaign left some doubt about his ability to live up to his massive contract. But Guru, a self-described Poole fan, isn’t a fan of Mike Dunleavy Jr.’s first big move.
“So there was a sacrifice, and it was Poole – and his future,” Guru said moments after the trade went down. “This one hurts, Steiny. I was a Poole fan, I didn’t think it would hurt like this. Again, I’ve told you I’ve rooted for Chris Paul so much these last few years, I just think the best ability is availability. You can’t count on him. I know he’s smart, I know what he is, but I just think he’s at the end.
“ I don’t think coming off the bench now – and I know free agency is upon us – but gosh, not having the automatic guy that can get you to the charity stripe in Jordan Poole, now you swap that for Chris Paul, I just can’t get excited. … I think they are further from a ‘chip than they were 10 minutes ago.”
Paul played 59 games last season, all starts. He has not made more than 70 regular season appearances since the 2015-16 season.
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Sign Up and Follow Audacy Sports
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram