Norman Powell Contract: Norman Powell’s recent trade to the Miami Heat has sparked a lot of buzz, especially around his contract situation. As a fan, it’s exciting to dive into what this means for Powell and the teams involved. Let’s break it down with a look at his current deal, his performance, the trade details, and what might come next.
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Powell’s Current Contract
Norman Powell is in the final year of a five-year, $90 million contract he signed with the Portland Trail Blazers in 2021. For the 2025-26 season, he’s set to earn $20.48 million, making him an unrestricted free agent next summer. This expiring contract played a big role in the Los Angeles Clippers’ decision to trade him, as they were hesitant to commit to a long-term extension for the 32-year-old guard. His deal is a solid reflection of his value as a reliable scorer, but it also puts him at a crossroads as he approaches free agency.
A Career-Best Season
Powell’s 2024-25 season with the Clippers was nothing short of stellar. He averaged a career-high 21.8 points per game, shooting 48.4% from the field and 41.8% from three-point range. His efficiency as a catch-and-shoot specialist, hitting 44.9% of his threes over the past seven seasons, made him a standout. Powell’s ability to step up as a starter, especially when Kawhi Leonard was sidelined, showed he’s more than just a role player. His All-Star-caliber performance last season has teams like the Heat betting on his scoring punch.
The Three-Team Trade
On July 7, 2025, Powell was traded to the Miami Heat in a three-team deal involving the Clippers and Utah Jazz. The Clippers received John Collins, while the Jazz got Kevin Love, Kyle Anderson, and a 2027 second-round pick. For Miami, Powell’s arrival addresses their need for backcourt scoring after losing Jimmy Butler and Duncan Robinson. The trade was a win for the Heat, who added a proven scorer without sacrificing future financial flexibility, though they’re now hard-capped at the first apron. The Clippers, meanwhile, prioritized cap space for 2027, which explains their reluctance to extend Powell.
What’s Next for Powell?
As Powell heads to Miami, all eyes are on how he’ll mesh with Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo. His elite shooting and playoff experience—he won a championship with the Raptors in 2019—make him a perfect fit for the Heat’s gritty style. With free agency looming in 2026, Powell’s performance this season could lead to a lucrative deal, though some teams might hesitate to commit long-term as he’ll be 33. For now, he’s got a chance to shine in Miami and prove he’s worth another big contract. Whether he stays with the Heat or tests the market, Powell’s future looks bright.