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Pelicans Find Spark as Jordan Poole Returns From Injury
New Orleans, LA – The New Orleans Pelicans are showing signs of life after a dismal start to the season, winning their last two games since Jordan Poole returned from a quad strain. Poole, who missed 18 games, the longest injury absence of his career, has provided an immediate offensive boost off the bench.
Despite admitting the frustration of being sidelined, Poole said he focused on intensive treatment and recovery during his time off. “It’s one of those things where no matter what I did or no matter what treatment or recovery work that I did, the injury itself just needed time,” Poole said. “I was basically doing 24 hours around the clock of treatment and recovery trying to make the most of the opportunity of having time off. But also pushing myself that when I come back, I’m able to make an impact.”
In his two games back, against Portland and Chicago, Poole has totaled 38 points and 7 assists. The Pelicans have outscored their opponents by 19 points in Poole’s 53 minutes on the court.
Interim Head Coach James Borrego praised Poole’s impact, calling him a “savvy scorer” who puts “constant pressure” on defenses. “I think just his overall impact on the game is tremendous,” Borrego said. “He can go on a big run by himself. He can turn a two-point game into a six-point or eight-point game quickly on both ends of the floor. He’s coming with the right mentality. He’s not trying to force it. He’s trying to play within our system and be a team guy and that’s what we need.”
While the early returns are promising, some fans remain skeptical, questioning Poole’s shot selection and defensive capabilities. However, Poole’s ability to handle the ball and provide instant offense is undeniable. It remains to be seen if Poole’s return can truly turn around the Pelicans’ season, but the initial signs are encouraging for the team and its fans.
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