NBA Trade Rumors: Blockbuster 2027 free agency plans led to Clippers shipping Norman Powell despite All-Star caliber season

July 7, 2025

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The LA Clippers may have surprised a few people by moving on from Norman Powell after trading him to the Miami Heat in a three-team deal. Powell had a borderline All-Star caliber season, averaging 21.8 points, 3.2 rebounds and 2.1 assists, shooting 48.4%, including 41.8% from 3.

His production was one of the key reasons the Clippers stayed afloat without Kawhi Leonard for the better part of the season. However, Powell’s contract situation didn’t align with LA’s long-term plans. The team is reportedly prioritizing the 2027 free agency and Powell’s extension could have been a problem.

Here’s what Hoops Hype’s Michael Scotto reported on Monday after Shams Charania reported about the three-team trade:

Powell's stellar season in 2024-25 could have helped him land at least a four-year extension, which would have trimmed the Clippers' advantage in 2026 and 2027 free agencies with cap space.

About the author

Arhaan Raje is an Assistant Content Manager and Senior Writer with Sportskeeda's NBA/WNBA team with four years of experience.

Arhaan focuses on features, trends, listicles, and the latest rumors and reports circling the league's top teams and players. He emphasizes detailed research to create impactful content for readers. A fan of Xs and Os, Arhaan provides technical deep dives in his reporting.

Arhaan completed his bachelor's degree in BBA in Media and Entertainment Management from Mumbai, India.

Arhaan admires the killer mentality of Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan. He respects LeBron James for being a role model on and off the court. The bold and decisive Gregg Popovich stands out as Arhaan's favorite basketball coach. LeBron's epic chase-down block in the 2016 NBA Finals has a special place in Arhaan's basketball memories.

He has interviewed former NBA Defensive Player of the Year Gary Payton and Ronnie 2K, the face of NBA2k and Marketing Director.

Sports isn't the only passion he has pursued professionally. Arhaan is also into performing arts in the music industry as a percussionist.

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