Did the Toronto Raptors let a star slip away in Norman Powell?

Reflecting on player trades and roster decisions with the clarity of hindsight is crucial, and one recent transaction involving the Toronto Raptors appears increasingly regrettable. This particularly pertains to the trade of Norman Powell, the sharpshooting guard who contributed significantly during his six seasons with the Raptors before being dealt mid-season in 2021. The decision to trade Powell for Gary Trent Jr. and Rodney Hood has prompted some to question whether the Raptors made a strategic misstep.

Powell for Trent Jr. looked good at the time, but now it's just a disaster

In March 2021, the Toronto Raptors executed a trade that sent Powell to the Portland Trail Blazers, acquiring Trent Jr. and Hood in return. At first glance, the deal appeared reasonable for a franchise looking to rejuvenate its roster. Powell, then 27, was a talented player, but Trent Jr., though younger, seemed to possess significant potential that could translate into a long-term asset for the Raptors. Given the circumstances, the trade was framed as a mutually beneficial swap, aimed at positioning both teams for future success.

Fast-forward to 2024, and the ramifications of that trade are crystal clear. While Gary Trent Jr. was initially seen as a promising addition, his tenure in Toronto came to an unceremonious end. After failing to secure a contract extension with the Raptors, Trent signed a one-year veteran minimum deal with the Milwaukee Bucks.

Unfortunately for Trent, his performance has been underwhelming, leading to his benching in favor of Andre Jackson Jr. The situation highlights a troubling trajectory for a player who was expected to be a cornerstone of Toronto's future.

In stark contrast, Norman Powell has been carving out an impressive narrative in the NBA. Now, as a member of the Los Angeles Clippers, he is enjoying a statistical surge, averaging an astonishing 25.7 points per game. His shooting efficiency is remarkable, hitting 51.6% from the field and a staggering 49.4% from beyond the arc.

With former Clippers star shooting guard Paul George now a member of the Philadelphia 76ers, Powell has smoothly transitioned into a leading role, effectively taking on the offensive responsibilities for the team. If he continues to be this impressive throughout the season, Powell could become a strong contender in the discussions for the NBA Most Improved Player award.

Powell's evolution as a player cannot be underestimated. He has transformed into a dynamic offensive threat, showcasing consistent improvement year over year. This transformation begs the question: did the Raptors misjudge Powell's potential?

Both teams emerged as losers in the Norman Powell trade

While their decision to trade him seemed prudent at the time, the results tell a different story. In hindsight, retaining Powell might have offered a more stable and effective option to build around, particularly given the uncertainty surrounding Trent's performance. The current landscape of the Raptors is also worth examining.

The prospect of having Powell, a proven scorer and seasoned player, could have offered the franchise a reliable option as they navigate their transitional phase. Moreover, considering the ideal player archetype that a young team like the Raptors needs—someone who can effectively complement their key emerging talents—it appears that Powell would have fit the bill perfectly. His experience in the NBA and postseason success with Toronto, including the 2019 championship run, would have made him an invaluable asset.

Looking at the long-term implications, it's evident that the Raptors might have overestimated their grasp of implied player potential in the trade. It's fair to conclude that the Raptors failed to capitalize on their opportunity to retain a player who has only gotten better with age. In a league that rewards sharpshooters and offensive creators, Powell's trajectory within the Clippers stands as a glaring reminder of what could have been.