Norman Powell is dominating, exceeding career highs, igniting the Miami Heat's offense. His undeniable All-Star case grows louder with every explosive performance.
After an unusual turn of events on Thursday night, the Miami Heat's matchup against the Chicago Bulls was postponed due to condensation on the court. It's that a game gets moved back under normal circumstances, let alone a weathering issue, which is more normal around baseball. Regardless, the Heat will move forward, traveling to Indianapolis and preparing to face the Pacers, who have a horrendous 7-31 record, dead last in the Eastern Conference standings.
As the team seeks consistency, Norman Powell has been great throughout the regular season. The 32-year-old is averaging 24.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.3 steals while shooting 49 percent from the field, 42.3 percent from behind the arc. He's surpassing last year's career numbers as a member of the Los Angeles Clippers. There is certainly a feeling of being snubbed by the 11-year veteran guard.
Powell has made it clear about his belief in "deserving" to be named an All-Star this season and the case is undeniable. However, the voting doesn't appear to be in favor of him. In the second return from the league, the former champion ranks 18th among Eastern Conference players. Powell has a case to be ahead of numerous players, such as Philadelphia 76ers' Joel Embiid, New York Knicks' Josh Hart, Mikal Bridges, and OG Anunoby. Also, Charlotte Hornets' LaMelo Ball and Brooklyn Nets' Michael Porter Jr.
Powell's production has kept the Heat's season above early expectations, despite struggles from within, such as All-Star guard Tyler Herro's availability, Bam Adebayo's offensive regression, etc.
On a recent episode of "The Zach Lowe Show," the longtime NBA analyst made a predictions list for the All-Star game, and had Powell earning his long-desired honor.
"This is the best season of his career," Lowe said. "For a Heat offense that really needs everything that he provides. He's one of the defining features of how they play their wacky, no-pick-and-roll, north-to-south style. I just don't know where they'd be without Norman Powell; certainly, they wouldn't be where they are now."
The national media may not pay much attention to the Heat, but Powell's All-Star case cannot be ignored. Whether or not the fans recognize it, the coaches around the league who decide the reserves won't turn away from it. Among peers, Powell gets acknowledged for his outstanding production, which should result in an invitation to Inglewood, California, for what would be the biggest individual honor of his career.
Join the Community! Don't miss out on our ROUNDTABLE community and the latest news! It's completely free to join. Share your thoughts, engage with our RoundTable writers, and chat with fellow members.
Download the free Roundtable APP, and stay even more connected!
More Miami Heat News: