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The Miami Heat were part of a surprise NBA trade on Monday when they acquired Norman Powell in a three-team deal with the Clippers and Jazz. Fans were immediately excited about what Powell will bring to the Heat, and once the shock wore off for him, he was just as happy.
Powell spoke publicly for the first time about the trade, saying that it was “a childhood dream” to play in Miami. The guard was a fan of Dwyane Wade. Powell said he was shocked when he learned he was traded, but was “really excited” when he found out he was going to the Heat.
Norman Powell was a Dwyane Wade fan growing up — so playing for the Heat is something he’s thought about, he said. And he already says he fits with the culture.
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Miami deserves an A+ for acquiring Powell in the deal, so it’s a win-win for both sides. He averaged a career-high 21.8 points per game in 2024-25 on 48.4% shooting from the field and 41.8% from three. Powell was limited to 60 games because of injuries, so his numbers dipped in the second half of the season, but his shooting statline was still impressive.
Powell isn’t a star, so he isn’t a Jimmy Butler replacement, but he is a fringe All-Star. He was one of the reserve snubs last season. Having him on the floor will take pressure off Tyler Herro, who was named an All-Star for the first time in 2025. Powell will be a welcome addition to the Heat’s offense.
Norman Powell says playing for Heat was a ‘childhood dream’
Powell said that he has heard great things about the organization, the fans, and the city from players who have spent time in Miami. He’ll get to experience it for himself in a few months when the regular season begins.
There is an extra incentive for Powell if his first season with the Heat resembles the 2024-25 season. He’s entering the final season of his contract, so he’s due for a payday. Powell thought that would come in LA, but now, he’ll have the chance to prove he belongs to stay in Miami. So far, so good. He is the kind of player who embodies Heat Culture.
Putting on a Miami jersey is special regardless, but it’s extra special to do so when it’s the team you idolized as a kid. Stepping onto the floor at Kaseya Center for the first time as a player for the Miami Heat will be a moment that Powell remembers forever.
Cheers to Powell making many, many threes!
