The NBA universe blew up with joy and surprise when Kevin Love and Anderson signed to the Miami Heat. Meanwhile, Norman Powell traded to the Los Angeles Clippers, and John Collins traded to the Utah Jazz. This blockbuster moves around the pieces of all four teams’ rosters, with impacts to how they stack up against everyone else and especially each other heading into next season.
The former five-time All-Star appeared in 23 games with Miami last season. He produced at a clip of 5.3 points and 4.1 rebounds per game in that stretch. His knowledge and presence alone is enough to greatly shore up Miami’s bench depth. Each are hoping to claw their way back up the standings in the Eastern Conference. Love’s transition to a more supportive role reflects his willingness to adapt to the team’s changing dynamics.
At the same time, Anderson, 31, played a key role for Miami following his in-season acquisition from the Golden State Warriors. He averaged 6.7 points over 25 games with the Heat, giving Miami yet more scoring options. This deal gives Miami an opportunity to focus on the specific skills of both players to put themselves in a better position to compete this season.
Norman Powell is a big addition to the Clippers after being traded there this past season. He should have averaged a career-high 21.8 points over 60 games! His touch from deep stands out, as he converted 42% of his three-point tries. At 32 years old, Powell’s offensive prowess is expected to bring a significant boost to the Clippers’ lineup.
Defensively, John Collins, 27, was the wing stopper the Jazz didn’t have last season. He provided reams of scoring and rebounding for 40 games, averaging 19 points and six rebounds. His inclusion with the Clippers creates a great opportunity for him to continue expanding his game operating off-ball next to Powell. Put their talents together and they could form a dangerous one-two combo on offense for Los Angeles.
The result are the trades that show the direction each team is trying to go to improve their rosters as we approach a new season. The Heat aims to solidify their core with experienced players, while the Clippers seek to increase their scoring capabilities and overall team depth.
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