Norman Powell #24 of the LA Clippers
The Los Angeles Clippers are set to receive a much-needed boost as sharpshooting guard Norman Powell inches closer to a return from a hamstring strain that’s sidelined him for the past week and a half. As the Clippers prepare for their final game of a challenging four-game road trip against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Powell has been listed as questionable, signaling that his comeback could be just around the corner.
Powell, who sustained the injury during the Clippers’ November 18th matchup against the Golden State Warriors, initially managed to play through the discomfort. Despite the strain, Powell finished the game with 23 points on 9-of-15 shooting in just under 26 minutes. However, the Clippers have since played it safe, holding him out for the past five games to prevent further aggravation of the injury.
Although Powell expressed confidence early on in his recovery, mentioning that he was feeling better, hamstring injuries are notoriously tricky, and re-injury is always a concern. The Clippers’ cautious approach has paid off thus far, as Powell’s presence has been sorely missed during his absence, especially with his scorching start to the season.
Through 15 games this season, Powell has been one of the most efficient scorers in the league, averaging career-highs with 23.3 points, 3.1 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 3.9 three-pointers per game on an incredible 49% shooting from the field. His 48.7% shooting from beyond the arc has also been a key weapon for the Clippers, especially as they work to find consistent scoring alongside the likes of Kawhi Leonard and Paul George.
James Harden, a key acquisition for the Clippers this offseason, has praised Powell’s growth this year, crediting the increase in opportunities for his offensive surge. “Norm has always been a great scorer in this league, but he has more opportunities, and quite frankly, he looks good doing it,” Harden said.
However, Harden has also emphasized the importance of Powell’s health, urging him not to rush back too soon. “That hamstring ain’t no joke,” Harden explained. “I don’t think it’s that serious, but I’ve been through it, and I kind of told him, ‘I’ll hold the fort down until you’re 100 percent ready because that’s important, and we’re going to need you throughout the course of this long season.’”
With the Clippers sitting at 8-8 on the season and Powell averaging 20-point performances in 11 games before the injury, his return couldn’t come at a better time. The Clippers will also be heading back home for a four-game homestand after Friday’s game in Minnesota, which will provide a crucial opportunity for Powell to find his rhythm and help the team build some momentum.
Friday’s game will also be a part of the NBA’s in-season tournament, and with both teams looking to make a statement, Powell’s presence could play a significant role in the Clippers’ success. Tip-off is set for 4:30 PM PST.
As Powell nears his return, the Clippers are optimistic that the injury was only a temporary setback. If he can return to full health, Powell’s scoring punch will provide a much-needed weapon in the Clippers’ pursuit of a deep playoff run this season.
