Following the addition of John Wall, it is clear the LA Clippers have phenomenal point guard depth. A few seasons ago, there were concerns about finding a true point guard to run the offense. Now, it seems as if the Clippers have one too many. Head coach Tyronn Lue has everything from scoring to passing to even defending.
When the Clippers need a bucket, there is only one point guard Lue can look to. While he is primarily known as a scorer, Norman Powell would be a great option at point guard. In regards to his size and skillset, Powell possesses all the tools necessary to run the offense efficiently.
Powell showed interest in running point guard during the LA Clippers’ 2022 media day this season. Pairing him alongside Kawhi Leonard and Paul George would be unfair for opposing teams. Not to mention, Powell is an outstanding perimeter defender. The LA Clippers would be nearly unstoppable on both ends of the court, with Powell leading in command.
Norman Powell said Ty Lue wants him to try using the point guard position more this season, and that's something he's been working on. pic.twitter.com/neObQSaDLZ
— Farbod Esnaashari (@Farbod_E) September 29, 2022
Additionally, there is a good chance that Powell begins the season as the sixth man for the LA Clippers. This could be an excellent opportunity for Powell to facilitate the bench unit when the starters are off the floor. Players like Terance Mann, Luke Kennard, and Amir Coffey could see increased opportunities with Powell leading the way.
Norman Powell will be a great option at point guard for the LA Clippers.
With immense wing depth, it would be unreasonable to utilize Powell as a scorer off the bench for the LA Clippers. In addition, Lue will likely be cautious when playing Wall due to his injury history. This would result in more playing time for Powell at the point guard position.
While Powell’s natural position may be the wing, he has consistently proven that he can be efficient when handling the basketball. Throughout his seven-year career in the NBA, Powell has only averaged 1.2 turnovers per game. Furthermore, Powell’s assist numbers have increased by over one assist per game since his rookie season.
Several players have improved their play-making abilities throughout the last few seasons after joining the LA Clippers. This was the case for Clipper legend Lou Williams, along with franchise stars Leonard and George. It is inevitable that when the point guard has the ball in his hands more often, the assist numbers will increase.
Moreover, Powell’s handles, change of pace, and vision are good enough for him to be one of the main point guards on the LA Clippers. Although Lue may not initially utilize Powell as a point guard, changes will likely be made as the season progresses. These adjustments will only increase the chances of the Clippers making a run at the NBA Finals.