The Miami Heat are gearing up for their final game before the All-Star break, squaring off against the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday night. But they’ll be doing it without one of their key scoring threats-Norman Powell-who’s been ruled out with a back issue.
Now, before the alarms start ringing, there’s reason to believe this might be more of a precautionary move than a long-term concern. Powell hasn’t been scratched from All-Star Weekend festivities just yet, including the three-point contest and the All-Star Game itself, where he’s slated to appear as a reserve. That’s a good sign for Heat fans and NBA watchers alike.
Powell’s first season in Miami has been one of the few bright spots in a campaign that hasn’t exactly gone according to plan. He’s emerged as a go-to option on the perimeter, often carrying the scoring load when the offense stalls. His ability to create shots and stretch the floor has been critical for a Heat team that’s struggled to find offensive consistency.
And that inconsistency has shown up in the standings. Heading into the matchup with New Orleans, the Heat are sitting at 28-27-hovering just above .500 and clinging to a play-in spot.
If the season ended today, they’d be in the play-in tournament for the fourth straight year. It’s not the kind of trajectory Miami envisioned, especially with the kind of veteran talent and playoff experience this roster brings to the table.
Powell’s absence isn’t the only injury note for Miami. Tyler Herro remains sidelined with a rib injury, while Andrew Wiggins is listed as questionable due to left toe inflammation.
Pelle Larson is also out with a right forearm strain. On the Pelicans' side, Micah Peavy is questionable with a toe sprain.
The Heat have been walking a tightrope all season-balancing injuries, lineup changes, and the pressure of staying competitive in a deep Eastern Conference. And while Powell’s back issue doesn’t appear to be a long-term setback, his availability after the break will be something to monitor closely. He’s been one of the few players consistently able to generate offense when Miami needs it most, and without him, the margin for error shrinks even further.
With the All-Star break looming, the hope is that this time off allows Powell-and the rest of Miami’s banged-up roster-to get right. Because if the Heat want to avoid another short postseason run, they’ll need all hands on deck, especially one that’s been as productive as Powell this season.