With the LA Clippers remaining reluctant to trade Ivica Zubac, given that he just had a career year and has the most extended term on the team (through 2027-28), trade buzz is rising for Norman Powell and his representatives. His contract, at an expiring $20 million, could easily be used to land the Kevin Durant’s or Jrue Holiday’s of the bunch.
The reason Powell’s owed money is valuable is because he is prized higher. Several teams would be comfortable paying the former UCLA Bruin between $30-35 million, as he could evolve into a 25-point-per-game scorer, so long as the ball is in his hands.
This season, Powell posted 21.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.1 assists, shooting 48.4% from the field and 41.8% from three.
Furthermore, Powell would be easily extended right now, but what he did in the playoffs could be forcing hesitation upon the front office. He went from an efficient, consistent, 20-plus points in the regular season to 16.0 in the postseason, with two games of 12, one of 13, and one of 9.
Hence, executive Lawrence Frank slowed himself down and is playing the patient game in terms of contract negotiations with the veteran guard. NBA insider Michael Scotto added that the front office is shooting for flexibility and is in no hurry to offer him an extension.
This could lead to a nightmare if Powell is unwilling to wait and wants to be rewarded as soon as possible for his improvements.
With the LA Clippers’ preference being patience, Norman Powell may frustratingly ask out of Los Angeles
The LA Clippers’ front office has every reason to believe patience is a virtue with Norman Powell, as he did not prove to be worthy of a significant extension against the Denver Nuggets, especially one that is north of $25 million annually.
Then again, Powell did have the best season of his career, and before the injury, he ensured the Clippers’ offense was stable without Kawhi Leonard. With next year being the last of his five-year deal, it would not be a shocker if Lawrence Frank was informed that he wants out.
This would be a nightmare for the Clippers to bear, yet the offer begins with them, and it is evident that Frank wants to see if Powell can average 20 again before agreeing to an extension.
If Powell is ready to bet on himself that next season will be better, then there are no worries; but if not, the Clippers will be forced to trade him amid an offseason focused on the requests of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Kevin Durant.