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

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 consists of both 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 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

A lot of the Golden State Warriors‘ fate is dangling over 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 get back.

In his absence, it’s Jordan Poole who has taken his place in the lineup. And it is safe to say, that 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.”

“Offensively, he’s tough to stay in front of. He’s got a lot going for him, but the defense has to pick up.”

Steve Kerr on Jordan Poole pic.twitter.com/r0fMqQ9QTo

— 95.7 The Game (@957thegame) October 13, 2021

WATCH THIS STORY: Moments to Look Out For in The League’s Short Film ‘NBA Lane’ That Commemorates Their 75th Anniversary

How was 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.

Oct 12, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Andre Iguodala (9) celebrates with guard Jordan Poole (3) and forward Otto Porter Jr. (32) during the third quarter against the Los Angeles Lakers at Staples Center. The Warriors won 111-99. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-USA TODAY Sports

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, only his defense still needs work.

READ MORE: Warriors President Has His Say on Possible Rift With Kevin Durant and Draymond Green

The post ‘Has to Pick Up’: Warriors’ Head Coach Steve Kerr Reveals What the One Area Jordan Poole Needs to Work on appeared first on EssentiallySports.