Miami Heat forward Norman Powell suited up against the Brooklyn Nets on Thursday despite being listed with calf discomfort, insisting he will continue to play through minor injuries. “Every organization knows what type of player I am,” Powell said. “I push my body to the limit.”
The 32-year-old, averaging 24.4 points per game, can enter unrestricted free agency next summer if no extension is signed. Still chasing his first All-Star invitation, he emphasized that personal honors remain secondary to winning. “My job is to play the best basketball I can and help the team get wins,” he added.
Rozier’s Salary Dispute Remains Unresolved
The NBA and the National Basketball Players Association met Wednesday in New York to address the league’s decision to place Terry Rozier’s salary in an interest-bearing escrow account while he remains on indefinite unpaid leave following his arrest on federal gambling charges. The hearing ended without a settlement, and a written ruling is not expected until next month, likely after the league’s Jan. 7 contract-guarantee deadline.
Smith Finds Stability After Injuries
Guard Dru Smith, who battled major knee and Achilles injuries earlier in his career, has secured a three-year deal and a regular rotation role. “I’m just proud of myself for making it back to this point,” Smith told reporters. “I think I’ve been available every night, and that was huge going into the year.” The 27-year-old noted he has not stayed healthy through December “in a couple of years” and remains focused on daily maintenance.
Defense Becomes Top Priority
Miami’s offense has slumped during a five-game losing streak, but Powell believes the bigger issue is at the other end of the floor. “We’ve got to be a defensive-first team,” he said, adding that the Heat may have relaxed after early-season scoring success. “Teams are adjusting, so now we have to really adjust.”
The Heat continue a four-game homestand Saturday.
Source: Hoops Rumors
