Norman Powell proving himself worthy of being mentioned in elite category

From the moment two-way superstar Paul George found a new home, three-level scoring threat Norman Powell understood his increased responsibility for the LA Clippers. Though he has always been capable of putting the ball in the basket, Powell is now expected to dominate as a second option with franchise centerpiece Kawhi Leonard dealing with injury.

Rising from UCLA, Powell entered the NBA as an elite three-point shooter. He could always shoot beyond 40% from distance, but as the years went on, he developed an all-around offensive armory. 

Currently, in year ten, Powell’s three-level prowess has been on full display for the Clippers. He is slicing defenses, getting to his spots, and scorching like a flame thrower from beyond the arc. This is no surprise to head coach Tyronn Lue, as he has believed in Powell since he was acquired by the team in 2021.

Through seven regular season games, Norman Powell has been carrying LA's offense on his back. He leads the team in various categories and has shown up when the city needs him most. These qualities hold Powell in a very selective category across the NBA.

Powell should be a Most Improved Player frontrunner

Moreover, Powell is having the best year of his veteran career, averaging 24.9 points and 2.6 rebounds, boasting an outstanding 50.8% from the field and 45% from three. It is not like he is doing it on a small sample size, either. Norman is putting up a career-high 17.7 shot attempts per game, as well as 8.6 three-point attempts a night.

Furthermore, these numbers are significantly different from last season, where Powell played the sixth man role for Ty Lue. Powell's efficiency was still high, but he was taking fewer shots around the perimeter. 

If Powell can keep up this kind of output for the remainder of the season, he would have to be a top candidate for the 2025 Most Improved Player Award. This shouldn’t be a debate when considering the improvements he has made through a major increase in opportunity. There is even a chance he could make the All-Star cut if the Clippers deliver in the win-loss category.