Golden State Warriors
Jordan Poole (No. 28), Alen Smailagic (No. 39), Eric Paschall (No. 41)
Despite an explosive starting lineup likely with four future Hall-of-Famers, the Golden State Warriors lacked production and explosion off the bench. Jordan Poole averaged just 12.8 points per game at Michigan last season, but what he brings to the table is sure to help the Dubs remain relevant next season.
Poole proved capable of operating both on and off the ball, shooting 36.9 percent from the 3-point line. With explosive athleticism that allows him to relentlessly attack the bucket, he can break down a defense and make plays with the shot clock winding down.
Golden State would then trade up in the second round to select G League forward Alen Smailagic. A member of the Santa Cruz Warriors, Smailagic didn’t put up great numbers but has the tools to develop into a solid pick-and-pop big.
Here's some nuggets on the Warriors' latest draft pick - Jordan Poole at No. 28 https://t.co/Man2pqF946
— Mark Medina (@MarkG_Medina) June 21, 2019
At 6’7” weighing roughly 254 pounds, Eric Paschall stands in the mold of new teammate Draymond Green. His size doesn’t take away from his quick first step that will surely help him in Golden State’s switch-heavy defensive scheme. Like Draymond, the former national champion has also proven to be a solid playmaker both off the dribble and screens.
The Warriors appear fragile for the first time in a long time, but Steve Kerr has never been afraid to give his new guys some run. With three draft picks, he’s hoping to infuse some much-needed youth and energy into an aging bench that will hopefully perform better than last season’s second unit.
Grade: B-