greg4012 wrote:MettaWorldPanda wrote:Not only has Powell taken on a leadership role and been an offensive go-to for the Clippers, but he has also become a defensive force. In an earlier game against the Golden State Warriors, Powell came up with a massive block on Moses Moody’s 3-point attempt then raced down the court and scored. He then took on the challenge of guarding 7-foot-3 Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs.
“Just honing in on the defensive end. That’s been the biggest thing,” said Powell, who has two blocked shots and nine steals this season. “I’ve been so focused offensively. They want me to return to my earlier days, guarding the ball, being a two-way player. So, that’s the thing I’m focused on, using my voice, being a leader on the defensive end because everybody knows I can score and put the ball in the basket.”
Some of you guys just love to get on your high horse and nitpick anything
In terms of Clippers team context, Powell had the 2nd worst DRTG and tied for worst DBPM (along with Amir Coffey) among the top 8 minute getters last season. He's not the level of bad defender that Miami has experienced with Rozier, Herro and Robinson. He has previously been a solid or better defender during his younger years and his shift to take on more offensive load has surely come at the expense of some defensive impact.
Opinion was for sure based on Norman Powell during his years with the Raptors. He had always seemed to be real tough on that end and does carry a 6'11 wingspan and have seen him take on bigger players at the wing spot. He's been tasked to take on a heavy scoring load in recent years but maybe is able to find something again with the Heat system. Guess I can hope but still a great move by the heat non the less
