Warriors' Jordan Poole Enters NBA's Health and Safety Protocols

Golden State Warriors guard Jordan Poole is listed as out for Friday night's road game against the Boston Celtics after being placed in the NBA's COVID-19 health and safety protocols.

Poole most recently played in Tuesday's 105-96 win over the New York Knicks, scoring 19 points in 34 minutes.

The 22-year-old University of Michigan product is enjoying a breakout campaign. He's averaged 17.9 points, 3.4 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 2.6 threes across 28 appearances during his third NBA season after being selected in the first round of the 2019 draft (29th pick).

His role has steadily increased during his time with Golden State, and he's played a key role helping the Dubs race out to a 23-5 record, which is tied as the league's best with the Phoenix Suns.

Poole figures to see his minutes (30.7) reduced after Klay Thompson, who's missed the past two-plus seasons with ACL and Achilles injuries, eventually returns to the lineup, but his strong play ensures he'll remain a key part of the rotation.

Warriors head coach Steve Kerr praised Poole's growth as a shooter last month.

"Really high," Kerr told reporters about his level of confidence in Poole's shot. "He's worked so hard on it. I think the challenge this year is kind of the next step of his evolution, which is to figure out what's a good shot. Being aggressive but without forcing."

The Milwaukee native's ability to keep defenses honest has helped take at least some pressure off Stephen Curry at the offensive end.

Damion Lee should step into the Warriors' starting lineup to fill the void. Andre Iguodala and Gary Payton II are other options for more playing time as part of the rotation.

A timetable for Poole's return was not provided, but Golden State plays three games in four days, beginning with Friday's matchup in Boston.