[OutsiderFan]

The Poole trade sucks from a pure player for player perspective. It is a calculated risk from a '23-'24 perspective. It is GREAT from a contract perspective.

When Poole was signed to his big extension, the punitive punishments that now exist for being over the luxury tax to the degree the Warriors were OK with being, didn't exist. It is clear Lacob is changing his behavior based on the new rules. He no longer sees competing for championships simply as a matter of spending more than everyone else. He sees winning in the future is going to require a different approach.

Chris Paul has two years left on his contract, but only this coming season is guaranteed. This means the Warriors can relieve themselves of over $70 million in contract obligations next year by letting Klay Thompson and Chris Paul walk. 

As for on the court this next season, I like having a defined and competent backup PG for Curry. Chris Paul has played 30+ MPG every year he's played in the NBA. As a backup PG, he will play more like 20 MPG, which should allow him to play the role Kyle Lowry did for the Heat this year.

If Moody continues his trajectory, Poole won't be missed with Paul on the roster. The big questions will be next off season. The Warriors will be in position to get under the tax even with a Draymond extension. Then what will they do?

But they still have a lot to do in the next couple months. And as John Holing points out, having Paul's contract to trade is super valuable for the Warriors if there are other possible deals out there that might allow them to get better.

[OutsiderFan]

The Poole trade sucks from a pure player for player perspective. It is a calculated risk from a '23-'24 perspective. It is GREAT from a contract perspective.

When Poole was signed to his big extension, the punitive punishments that now exist for being over the luxury tax to the degree the Warriors were OK with being, didn't exist. It is clear Lacob is changing his behavior based on the new rules. He no longer sees competing for championships simply as a matter of spending more than everyone else. He sees winning in the future is going to require a different approach.

Chris Paul has two years left on his contract, but only this coming season is guaranteed. This means the Warriors can relieve themselves of over $70 million in contract obligations next year by letting Klay Thompson and Chris Paul walk. 

As for on the court this next season, I like having a defined and competent backup PG for Curry. Chris Paul has played 30+ MPG every year he's played in the NBA. As a backup PG, he will play more like 20 MPG, which should allow him to play the role Kyle Lowry did for the Heat this year.

If Moody continues his trajectory, Poole won't be missed with Paul on the roster. The big questions will be next off season. The Warriors will be in position to get under the tax even with a Draymond extension. Then what will they do?

But they still have a lot to do in the next couple months. And as John Holing points out, having Paul's contract to trade is super valuable for the Warriors if there are other possible deals out there that might allow them to get better.