Norman Powell, a guard for the Los Angeles Clippers, has established himself in his fourth season and is making his presence felt early this year.

Having achieved his aim to be a consistent starter, Powell now seeks to prove the critics who have low expectations for the Clippers in 2024 wrong.

Currently, the Clippers stand at a record of 6-6, with Powell shining in the lineup after the exits of Russell Westbrook and Paul George.

He described the situation as “addition by subtraction.”

Having previously finished fourth in the Sixth Man of the Year Award for two consecutive seasons, Powell has made it clear he is aiming for greater heights this year.

With increased opportunities, Powell has thrived at the start of this season.

From Sixth Man to Vital Starter

“I’ve always had that mindset,” stated Powell. “I hold myself to high standards and always envisioned being a starter and a key contributor for any team.”

This season, with the sixth-man role no longer applicable, Powell has the potential to be selected as an NBA All-Star and contend for the Most Improved Player Award, given his impressive rise in scoring.

In 12 games, he’s averaging 26 points per game, a significant jump from his previous career-high average of 13.9 points in 76 games last season.

Powell’s standout performances include a season-high of 37 points in a win over the Denver Nuggets, along with scoring 31 points against both the Sacramento Kings and Oklahoma City Thunder.

“He’s been exceptional this year, especially with (Paul George) out and Kawhi (Leonard) injured,” said Kings guard Malik Monk to Fox 40 Sacramento regarding Powell. “He’s playing really well.”

His scoring prowess has become crucial for the Clippers, who initially were expected to rely on James Harden for most of their offensive output.

“It’s vital for him to take on some of the scoring responsibilities with Kawhi sidelined,” Clippers coach Tyronn Lue remarked. “It shows James that other players can also put points on the board, easing the pressure on him each night.”

As of Wednesday, Powell stands alongside Nikola Jokic (Nuggets) and Kyrie Irving (Dallas Mavericks) as the only players averaging 25 points per game while shooting 50% from the floor and 50% from three-point range.

Powell’s Focus on Mental Well-Being

This offseason, Powell concentrated on enhancing his physical fitness, but he also emphasizes the importance of mental health in his recent success.

“I’ve been reading a lot of self-help books that aid in my personal development and mentality, especially relating to sports. There’s an open conversation about mental health and the pressures athletes experience … The mental aspect is a significant part of the game,” he explained.

Working with a mental health coach has guided Powell in the right direction, helping him to manage overthinking and cope with depression he has faced when his physical efforts didn’t always yield results on the court.

He also embodies the motto “Understand the Grind,” which is the name of his clothing line.

This mindset has reminded him to be a role model for those from his hometown of San Diego.

Returning to the Clippers in 2021 provided him the opportunity to reconnect with his community and family.

Powell actively contributes to his community, using his platform to inspire the youth through AAU teams and mentorship programs. He participates in charitable events during back-to-school and holiday seasons as well.

“My humanitarian efforts stem from my mother. As a social worker and single parent, she raised me and my sisters while always finding time to help our community and be a pillar in San Diego.”