Rumors are making the rounds that the New Orleans Pelicans are considering waiving Jordan Poole and the $34 million remaining on his bloated expiring contract this season. Thus far, the buzz is from unsubstantiated sources, but there has been thought around the league this offseason that the Pelicans wouldn't mind absolving themselves of Poole and his large salary.
The four-year, $128 million rookie contract extension he originally signed with the Golden State Warriors ($123M guaranteed) has turned out to be a disaster. But hey, the former first-rounder is still just 27, and has had two 20+ point seasons in the last four years.
His 2025-26 season with the Pelicans was a debacle, as his scoring average dropped seven points per game to 13.4 ppg, while his playing time and usage were cut dramatically.
But three teams have been mentioned as potential landing spots should the Pels shake themselves free of Poole, and one of them could be a very curious reunion.
Golden State Warriors
Who wouldn't want to see Poole re-join Draymond Green and the Warriors? His career in Golden State was cut short after a much-publicized video leaked of Poole being slugged and KO'd by Green at a Warriors practice in 2022.
The Warriors are looking for some added offensive punch... but maybe not of this variety.
Miami Heat
The Heat are looking for some help in the backcourt after trading away Tyler Herro and Kasparas Jakučionis in the Giannis trade. But Poole's lack of attention to defense would not make him a great fit for "Heat culture." Nor would his $34 million contract. That would be a very difficult fit for Miami.
Sacramento Kings
Here's a team that might make some sense. The Kings have bought out DeMar DeRozan and watched as Russell Westbrook retired. That's 34 points a night gone from their lineup from last season. Poole, if given a good opportunity, could make up a fair chunk of that. But again, financially, the Kings have only $3.6 million in room below the first apron threshold and are hard-capped at that level.
