Jordan Poole’s Role Takes Unexpected Turn as Trade Rumors Begin to Swirl

Jordan Poole (Image Credits: Imagn)

Jordan Poole’s Role Takes Unexpected Turn as Trade Rumors Begin to Swirl

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports | By Kenny Nosay | Last updated Jan 30, 2026 1:21 AM ET

It looks like the New Orleans Pelicans have had enough of Jordan Poole’s inconsistency.

As one of their prized offseason acquisitions via a complicated three-team trade, Poole’s play with the Pelicans has been mostly subpar this season. While there are nights were he looks like he’s figured it out, there are also nights when he looks like a G-leaguer. Even Pels fans have started to boo his shot selection, especially from three.

Now, with Jordan Poole outside of the Pelicans’ rotation, the team is reportedly trying to dangle his name to other teams ahead of the trade deadline.

The Pelicans have removed Jordan Poole from the rotation and plan to dangle him in trade talks, per @WillGuillory.

He’s shooting 37% from the field this season and has received two straight DNP-CDs. pic.twitter.com/oqeKCRmHa6
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) January 29, 2026

Truth be told, there’s not really a market for Poole. Add to the fact that he’s making top dollar this season, $31.8 million to be precise, nobody will ever take that burden of a salary. To make matters worse, he’s going to be owed a whopping $34 million in the 2026-2027 season.

There’s no doubt that he’s one of the most overpaid players today. And no team would certainly take a chance on him. It sure looks like the New Orleans Pelicans are going to be stuck with him for the foreseeable future. Or they could just waive him and stretch his salary.

Jordan Poole Caught Off Guard With A Young Fan’s Question

Jordan Poole (Image Credits: Imagn)

Whether Poole is a good or bad player is up for debate. However, one thing is clear: he’s an NBA champion. The 26-year-old was once a vital cog in the Golden State Warriors’ title run in 2022. There was a time when he was perceived as the next franchise cornerstone for the Dubs.

But after a punching incident instigated by ex-Warriors teammate Draymond Green, everything went sour for Jordan Poole’s career. Despite the fiasco happening in 2022, the Pels guard was caught off guard when a young fan asked him about what it felt like to be punched in the face.

“Oh, my. It’s tough, bro.” Poole answered the young fan. Well, that seems to be the overall narrative of his career since his departure with the Warriors.

This article first appeared on Total Pro Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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