A dominant scoring surge and a relentless drive propelled Norman Powell to his first All-Star selection, solidifying his impact with the Miami Heat.
Despite the ups and downs throughout the regular season, Norman Powell has been a strong bright spot for the Miami Heat. The veteran guard is averaging 23 points, 3.7 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.2 steals while shooting 47.2 percent from the field, 39.2 percent from three-point range in 43 games. He's on pace to surpass last year's number with the Los Angeles Clippers, which was already new career highs.
The 32-year-old made it a mission to be named an All-Star this year after feeling snubbed last year. He had an undeniable case, especially within the Eastern Conference.
On Sunday evening, it was announced that Powell has officially made the All-Star team and will return to Inglewood, California, under impressive circumstances.
There are a few other first-timers, such as Toronto Raptors forward Scottie Barnes, Detroit Pistons center Jalen Duren, Atlanta Hawks forward Jalen Johnson, Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray, Oklahoma City Thunder center Chet Holmgren, and Portland Trail Blazers forward Deni Avdija.
Also, it marks the first time that NBA icon LeBron James was voted an All-Star as a reserve, making a historic 22-year consecutive appearance.
Powell has been extremely impactful for the Heat since the offseason blockbuster trade. As there's been a variety of injuries to the roster, especially All-Star guard Tyler Herro, it's given the veteran guard a chance to flourish.
There have been a few other players to be named an All-Star for the first time after reaching the age of 30, such as three-time NBA champion Sam Cassell in 2004, 34, with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Anthony Mason in 2001, 34, with the Miami Heat, and the late Hall of Famer Nathaniel "Nat" Clifton in 1957, 34, with the New York Knicks.
Powell joins an exclusive company.
An interesting fact: the Heat didn't give up a single draft pick to acquire him from the Clippers.
Powell plays a massive role in the Heat's offense, which averages 119.7 points per game, third-most in the league. Despite missing a few games throughout the regular season due to back spasms, plus Saturday and Sunday's games against the Chicago Bulls, his All-Star resume was hardly a question.
Powell extends the Heat's streak of having an All-Star representation to eight consecutive seasons.
It's worth noting that he's in the final season of a five-year, $90 million contract. An All-Star appearance will be a great negotiation tactic in free agency, whether it results in an extension with the Heat or signing elsewhere.
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