When Paul George left the Los Angeles Clippers this summer time, the group puzzled who might change George’s manufacturing. The reply to that query has been Norman Powell.
Powell scored 35 factors because the Los Angeles Clippers made up a 12-point deficit to defeat the New Orleans Pelicans 116-113. He is averaging a career-high 24.6 factors whereas capturing 45.9 p.c from three-point vary, each the very best marks on the group.
It is not that Powell hasn’t been an efficient participant for the Clippers previously. He completed fourth within the Sixth Man of the 12 months voting in every of the final two seasons, however Powell will not be repeating the efficiency as a result of he is been too good for Ty Lue to not begin.
In truth, in line with Clippers broadcaster Brian Sieman, the honour Powell deserves is a spot on the All-Star group.
The Clippers have had a wonderful protection this yr, rating fifth within the NBA. What they’re missing, except for Powell, is a participant who can rating effectively — James Harden’s 39 p.c capturing from the sector is not slicing it.
In the meantime, George is averaging 15.8 factors in an injury-marred season with the Philadelphia 76ers, capturing simply over 40 p.c. The Clippers let George go as a result of they did not wish to give him a max contract, and that call is trying clever.
In line with Powell, the explanation the Clippers are a shocking 19-13 is due to their grit and toughness. He is been offering that himself, together with one different essential ingredient: Buckets.