NBA: 5 rookies that have stood out during the first week of preseason

Jordan Poole, Golden State Warriors

With guard Klay Thompson set to miss the majority of the season as a result of an Achilles injury, the Warriors decided to select a player in the draft to help create more depth at the shooting guard position. Golden State selected Jordan Poole out of Michigan with the 28th pick.

Due to the Warriors’ hapless situation, Poole will be in unfamiliar territory for a rookie coming into the league. With an enlarged role, he’ll be a critical asset for a playoff team. Most rookies don’t have the luxury of playing increased minutes for a team bound for the postseason. Whereas Poole will have to quickly adjust and give the Warriors key minutes off the bench.

The product out of Michigan will serve as the backup to recently acquired D’Angelo Russell.

In Poole’s first two games playing in the NBA, he’s averaged 18 points while shooting 47.8 percent from the field and an alarming 43.8 percent from 3. Currently outshining many prospects that were selected miles ahead of him.

From the start, Poole has shown the ability to contribute to playing off the ball, as well as his efficiency on catch-and-shoot opportunities. Steve Kerr and the Warriors’ free-flowing offense directly complements Jordan Poole’s strengths.

The Golden State Warriors found themselves a steal late in the draft.

Golden State is going to depend heavily on his play off the bench for this upcoming season. As for now, he’s proved that he can be a viable contributor for the team throughout the year.

Watch out for the sleeper Jordan Poole this season.