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Norman Powell’s Career Night Elevates All-Star Case as Heat’s Top Scorer

Coaches’ reserve ballots now likely determine his All-Star chances given a low early fan ranking.

Overview

  • Powell scored 34 points with a career-high nine 3-pointers in a 125-106 win over the Pelicans on Sunday.
  • He leads Miami at 24.4 points per game, providing primary offense with Tyler Herro and Jaime Jaquez Jr. missing time.
  • After right-hamstring tightness the night before, he cleared protocols and played, with Erik Spoelstra citing growing trust in his availability.
  • Initial fan returns placed him 18th in the East and eighth among guards as starters are set by a 50% fan, 25% player and 25% media vote, leaving coaches’ reserve selections pivotal.
  • Miami is 20-16 heading into a four-game road trip, and Powell’s breakout follows an offseason trade from the Clippers as he plays on a $20.5 million expiring contract.