Jordan Poole has been moved out of the New Orleans Pelicans’ rotation over the past four games, as the team has opted for a starting group featuring Trey Murphy III, Herbert Jones, Saddiq Bey, Zion Williamson, and Derik Queen.
That lineup change has pushed rookie point guard Jeremiah Fears to the bench while leaving Poole without minutes altogether, according to Rod Walker of NOLA.com.
Despite the reduced role, head coach James Borrego said the veteran guard remains prepared if his opportunity returns.
“Obviously, Poole will stay ready and he’ll be ready to go,” Borrego said when addressing Poole’s recent absence from the lineup.
“(He was) back at it today in practice and so we expect him to stay ready. You never know when your number is going to get called. Everybody who has stepped in for us this year has made an impact. I expect him to do the same.”
Poole has been mentioned in trade speculation for New Orleans, in part due to his inconsistent performance and fluctuating role since arriving in an offseason deal with the Washington Wizards.
Statistically, this season has marked a low point in several categories for Poole. He is averaging career lows in minutes at 25.4 per game, scoring 14.5 points, and dishing out 3.1 assists, his lowest marks since the 2020/21 season.
He has also made just six starts, the fewest he has had in any year of his NBA career.
Southwest Notes: Poole, Hawkins, Flagg, Durant https://t.co/QyWgQeFtlj pic.twitter.com/eu3gPsqzzh
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) February 2, 2026
