Toronto Raptors Sign Norman Powell to a Four-Year Extension
Players who excel on both ends of the floor are not exactly a dime-a-dozen in the National Basketball Association (NBA). That's why the Toronto Raptors didn't waste any time in locking up Norman Powell for the long-term.
According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, Powell has agreed to sign a four-year, $42-million contract extension with the Raptors. The deal will start in the 2018–19 season and it includes a player option for the fourth year.
"I'm ready for it. It's what I've worked for. It's what I've fought for my first two years. . . I've worked, I've pushed myself in a totally different way this offseason. I'm preparing myself for a full 82-game season, for increased minutes, taking care of my body, just training and trying to improve. So I'm ready for it. I'm excited to get the season started," Powell said, via NBA.com.
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In 76 games (18 starts) last season, Powell averaged 8.4 points, 2.2 rebounds and 1.1 assists while playing only 18 minutes per game. He also shot 44.9 percent from the field and 32.4 percent from beyond the three-point line.
His numbers aren't really that impressive, but Powell has the potential to develop into a two-way star in the NBA due to his ability to guard multiple positions.
While defense remains his main "calling card," Powell has also been shooting the ball at a respectable clip, so opposing players can no longer sag off of him. He was known for his defensive tenacity and ability to drive to the basket when he entered the league in 2015, but he has worked tirelessly on his outside shot in the past couple of years. He still has to develop a consistent three-point shot, though.
With DeMarre Carroll gone, Powell will get the chance to win the starting job at small forward this season. If the Raptors start C.J. Miles at the position, Powell can continue to backup DeMar DeRozan and contribute off the bench.
