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Toronto Raptors: Norman Powell’s future still shrouded in mystery

By Paul Taylor

TORONTO, ON - OCTOBER 17: Norman Powell #24 of the Toronto Raptors is introduced to the crowd, prior to an NBA game against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Scotiabank Arena on October 17, 2018 in Toronto, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images)
TORONTO, ON - OCTOBER 17: Norman Powell #24 of the Toronto Raptors is introduced to the crowd, prior to an NBA game against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Scotiabank Arena on October 17, 2018 in Toronto, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images) /
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Norman Powell is still at least one week away from returning, but even when he does, questions will remain about his future with the Toronto Raptors.

Norman Powell entered this season as a man on a mission; desperate to return to his position as a key member of the Toronto Raptors‘ rotation. He had lost his status during a disappointing 2017-18 campaign, due to a lack of production combined with the emergence of Delon Wright and OG Anunoby.

Powell started off well enough, particularly with his shooting; his effective field goal percentage was the best of his four seasons in the NBA. It was also necessary, with him averaging his fewest minutes per contest since his rookie year.

However, then disaster struck for the 25-year-old, who was also providing good defence. He suffered a left shoulder subluxation (partial dislocation) against Utah, and was ruled out for at least four weeks.

In that respect, Monday represented exactly four weeks since Powell suffered his injury. And right on cue, Raptors coach Nick Nurse provided an update to the media, including Blake Murphy of The Athletic.

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Nurse estimated the San Diego, California native might be about seven to 10 days away from returning to action. However, the Raptors coach did admit this was only a rough estimate.

The Raptors will continue to take a cautious approach with Powell. And in reality, there is no need for them to rush him back anyway, given the health of the team and how well they have been playing.

In fact, there are no guarantees the shooting guard/small forward will become a regular part of the rotation when he returns anyway. And this must make him very nervous.

Prior to the season, we asked if Powell was a genuine trade candidate for the Raptors? In truth, this remains a legitimate question.

The 2015 second round draft pick has talent, but if he’s not playing, moving him makes sense. His salary would also be appealing to other teams, especially with his four-year, $42 million contract only kicking in this season. (Although the final year is a player option.)

Of course, first things first, Powell needs to actually return to action. However, once he does, his narrative will be worth keeping an eye on in the lead up to the Feb. 8 trade deadline.

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How would you rate Powell’s play prior to his injury? And do you think he will be moved before the trade deadline, or return to being a key member of the Toronto Raptors’ rotation? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

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