Norman Powell didn’t wait long before convincing his Miami Heat teammate to give him his jersey number.
Norman Powell is coming off a wonderful season with the LA Clippers. With Kawhi Leonard out for much of the season, Powell elevated himself to near-All-Star status.
But for his strong performance, he got quite a nasty surprise. The Clippers traded Powell to the Miami Heat, as they acquired John Collins in the three-team deal.
Admittedly, Powell felt betrayed by the Clippers over the trade, especially considering how well he played for them last season.
Luckily for him, his future teammates have seemingly embraced him. Bam Adebayo applauded Powell’s arrival on the Heat.
But it’s another Miami Heat teammate who went out of their way to make him feel comfortable. But Powell did have to convince them to do so.
Photo by Keith Birmingham/MediaNews Group/Pasadena Star-News via Getty ImagesNorman Powell speaks about Haywood Highsmith giving him #24 jersey
Norman Powell spoke in an interview with the Miami Herald, discussing a host of topics, including his move to the Miami Heat recently.
When talking about taking the #24 from Haywood Highsmith, he spoke about their interactions and how his teammate offered him the jersey. It was a gesture he appreciated very much.
“There was respect on both sides. We were able to negotiate and go back and forth, and come up with something that we felt was fair for each other.
“He gave me the respect. He said it in a text, ‘You’re the vet and you’ve worn it your whole career, so I’m not trying to disrespect you in any type of way.’
“That kind of set the tone, and we were able to work something out. So I definitely appreciate him for doing that.”
Welcome to the 3🏀5, @npowell2404!
OFFICIAL: The Miami HEAT have acquired guard Norman Powell from the Los Angeles Clippers in a three-team trade in which Kyle Anderson, Kevin Love and a Clippers 2027 second round pick go to the Utah Jazz and John Collins joins the Clippers. pic.twitter.com/FwXANvkaUh
— Miami HEAT (@MiamiHEAT) July 7, 2025
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Miami Heat might have to make some alternative plans
While the Miami Heat will be happy to land Powell, who almost became an All-Star last season, they might have to prepare for his departure.
Powell hired a super agent with several Boston Celtics clients recently, which could be a sign that he is looking to join the team next season.
Powell is in the final year of his contract and becomes a free agent. For the Heat, Powell leaving in free agency after one season would be a disaster.
They had to give up assets to land Powell, so him leaving for free wouldn’t be a good look.
If Powell can’t negotiate a new contract with the Miami Heat, then the team should consider trading him before the deadline.