‘Has to Pick Up’: Warriors’ Head Coach Steve Kerr Reveals the One Area Jordan Poole Needs to Work on

Published 10/13/2021, 12:30 PM EDT

The Golden State Warriors really have fans wondering how much they’re capable of with their great performance in the preseason so far. They’ve won all four of their games and their roster comprises a healthy mix of veteran players and youngsters. This did not seem like the ideal mixture for winning the NBA championship, but now it has everyone thinking otherwise. In fact, the way Jordan Poole has emerged so far has also won hearts. Of course, head coach Steve Kerr has seen the changes, but he still thinks there is some more work to be done with him.

Warriors Jordan Poole needs to work on his defense

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The Golden State Warriors‘ fate is dangling in the balance with Klay Thompson‘s return. With him back, they can definitely be considered one of the title contenders. But before jumping the gun, the Dubs have to get through a few months before he is healthy enough to play regularly.

In his absence, it’s Jordan Poole who has taken his place in the lineup. And with him, the Warriors actually have a good chance of hanging in there, that too well, before the other Splash Brother can make his comeback. While Poole has certainly done a good job, Steve Kerr thinks that there is still room for improvement.

In an interview, Kerr was asked what they did to help improve Poole’s growth. He said, “He’s just worked really hard and got a lot of confidence. The thing we’re trying to press upon him now is his defense. It’s going to determine everything. His first half defense was really poor. Transition… he wasn’t hustling back. Wasn’t playing with any physicality… Offensively, he’s tough to stay in front of. He’s got a lot going for him, but the defense has to pick up.”

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How has he proven himself?

Some could argue that his 30-point performance against the Portland Trail Blazers could just be an example of a good shooting night for him, but his contribution to their win against Denver Nuggets also proved to be vital.

Not only that, but he also produced 28 points in their 121-114 victory against the Los Angeles Lakers. Dubs fans are hoping there is only a rise from here onwards. Because if he continues to play this way, the franchise has a real chance at making it to the playoffs without Klay. Of course, his defense still needs that work.

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Yashima Bhatia is an NBA writer for EssentiallySports who specialises in providing nuanced predictions and updates for matches. She has a Bachelor's degree in journalism and mass communication. Yashima's love for playing the game came up at a young age, when the excitement of the games coupled with the intensity of the Playoffs had her hooked.

‘Has to Pick Up’: Warriors’ Head Coach Steve Kerr Reveals the One Area Jordan Poole Needs to Work on

Warriors Jordan Poole needs to work on his defense

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How has he proven himself?