Jordan Poole Listed Doubtful for Thursday with Ankle Injury

Jordan Poole is officially listed as doubtful for Thursday's game with an ankle injury, according to Underdog NBA.

The New Orleans Pelicans shooting guard is dealing with a tweak that will likely keep him in street clothes. For a guy whose entire game is built on sudden stops, deep pull-ups, and chaotic bursts of speed, a bad ankle is basically a flat tire on a sports car.

"Underdog NBA reported Poole is doubtful for Thursday."

The Pelicans will have to adjust their rotation to make up for the missing offensive volume. Poole is the kind of player who can shoot you into a massive lead or right out of a tight game, meaning his absence completely changes the math for New Orleans.

From a betting and fantasy perspective, a doubtful tag usually means it is time to look elsewhere. Without Poole soaking up usage, expect the rest of the Pelicans' backcourt to see a noticeable bump in shot attempts and playmaking responsibilities.

Losing your primary heat-check guy is never ideal, especially when the Western Conference standings are tighter than a pair of fresh compression socks. You cannot just replace the sheer audacity of a Jordan Poole transition three.

We will see if the ankle responds to treatment over the next couple of days. Until then, New Orleans will have to find someone else to launch from the logo with 18 seconds left on the shot clock.