Norman Powell's future with the Miami Heat may not be as straightforward as he'd like it to be right now. And, if a recent report is accurate, it may come down to whether the Heat can add Giannis Antetokounmpo (or another star player) via trade first.
According to NBA insider Jake Fischer, while the Heat are interested in bringing Powell back, they may keep that possibility on the "back burner" while they go after Giannis first.
It's certainly not an ideal situation for Powell, but if he truly wants to be back with the Heat next season, this is probably the way it needs to be. Heading into an offseason where the Heat has its sights set on monumental changes, re-signing Powell is just not going to be an immediate priority.
Norman Powell will be a strong supporting piece next to a star in Miami
Miami is all-in on the possibility of adding a star player this summer. With all eyes on Giannis, the Heat is seeking to dramatically revamp its roster. Without question, it will certainly be a tall task for Miami to acquire Giannis. If they can, there is a potential path to real contention in the Eastern Conference.
However, it will take more work than most realize.
Even if the Heat are able to add a star player this summer, they're going to need other strong supporting pieces in place. Theoretically, if the Heat were to land Giannis, their roster is likely going to be gutted in the process.
That's why keeping a potential extension for Powell in their back pocket will be helpful. Of course, that's as long as Powell is willing to play along.
That may not be a guarantee. If history has taught us anything, it's that free agency money generally dries up fast. If there's any substantial interest in Powell, which could very well be the case, it could force the Heat into a difficult decision.
Would Miami let Norman Powell walk?
What would the Heat do if Powell wants to make a free-agency decision before there's any resolution on the Giannis front? Would Miami move to re-sign Powell (with the hopes they could get a trade done later in the offseason), or would they be willing to let the offensive-minded guard walk?
Is there a line in the sand when it comes to an extension number that the Heat will draw; does that change if the Heat are able to trade for a star player? If the Heat believes they're going to lose Tyler Herro (likely via trade) this summer, does that make a Powell extension even more important?
All of these scenarios are likely being walked through behind closed doors, and the Heat certainly need to be prepared for each of them. However, it's almost impossible to answer them now.
The unfortunate truth is that there is so much up in the air for the Heat this offseason. And Powell is finding himself at the center of all that uncertainty.
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