Norman Powell, the LA Clippers final piece to the championship puzzle

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 09: Luke Kennard #5, Norman Powell #24, and Terance Mann #14 of the Los Angeles Clippers talk during the second half against the Sacramento Kings at Crypto.com Arena on April 09, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 09: Luke Kennard #5, Norman Powell #24, and Terance Mann #14 of the Los Angeles Clippers talk during the second half against the Sacramento Kings at Crypto.com Arena on April 09, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images)

Norman Powell was very good in the five games he played in a Clipper uniform. Powell is the perfect player to compliment the superstar duo of Kawhi Leonard and Paul George. From playing at UCLA to now playing for the LA Clippers, Powell’s basketball journey has made a full circle.

Norman Powell, standing at 6’3″, can defend multiple positions and has a very versatile offensive game. Adding another two-way star to the Clippers takes the pressure off the shoulders of Leonard and George. Even guys like Reggie Jackson and Luke Kennard can take a breather.

The LA Clippers have numerous ways in which they can utilize Norman Powell. They can have Powell come off the bench and make an instant impact, or they can start Powell along with George and Leonard. No matter how the Clippers decide to use Powell, opposing teams will have nightmares all season long when facing the Clippers. But what makes Powell so valuable?

Norman Powell, The Third Star.

Since joining the LA Clippers, Norman Powell has made an instant impact. On his debut against the Milwaukee Bucks, Powell posted a ridiculous stat line of 28 points and four three-pointers made in only 23 minutes. Towards the end of the year, Powell returned to full health. In one of the last games of the regular season against the Phoenix Suns, Powell posted another notable stat line of 24 points on 60% from the field in only 22 minutes. This was one of the games in which the chemistry between George and Powell looked as if they had been playing together all season.

Powell’s ability to make an impact in limited minutes shows how valuable he is. There are not very many players in the NBA who can average 19 points per game on over 40% from the 3-point line. Being an efficient scorer as well as a very good defensive player is what makes Powell an all-star caliber player. Powell has expressed his desire to earn an all-star selection.

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Adding Powell elevates the LA Clippers in many ways. Powell is also sealed up for the next few years as he signed a 5-year / $90 million contract with the Portland Trailblazers making him an unrestricted free agent in 2026.

Norman Powell is also a great finisher around the rim. This gives Tyronn Lue numerous ways to create opportunities for others as well. Powell has just about the perfect offensive game. The LA Clippers look extremely well entering next season. With Powell’s abilities on both ends of the floor, the Clippers should have no issue at all in winning games next season. The only factor holding the Clippers back from success is being able to stay healthy.