During a media event in September, Norman Powell stirred attention with his assertion that Paul George departing from the LA Clippers was an example of ‘addition by subtraction.’

This controversial statement soon circulated widely. Powell later addressed the comments on ESPN’s NBA Today and during discussions on Draymond Green’s podcast.

However, Powell clarified that he wasn’t disparaging George, someone he respects. Instead, he aimed to highlight his own potential and readiness to step into a larger role now that George had left.

“The media likes to twist words and make it seem like I’m attacking PG, but really I was just emphasizing my opportunity. Everyone was concerned about how much we lost and thought the team would struggle. I believe there’s someone ready to step up and maintain our competitive edge,” Powell stated to FOX Sports.

His statements back in the fall may have stumbled some, especially with the Clippers introduced a vivid $2 billion arena. How could they remain a force without a superstar like George, who averaged 22.6 points last season?

Fast forward seven months, and those remarks appear in a different light. Powell astonishingly had a breakout season, registering career-highs as he turned 31: 21.8 points per game, alongside an improved 3-point shooting performance.

In his playoff debut against the Denver Nuggets, Powell scored 20 points, underscoring that his early statement was a challenge to himself—a way to assert what he is capable of providing.

“I was used to being a support player behind bigger stars in my past teams. I always aimed to see if I could take on a leading role every night. This season was my opportunity to take charge,” Powell expressed.

His substantial growth was particularly impressive, as such leaps are rare for players in their thirties. Due to George’s exit, Powell found himself as a starter and with increased responsibility.

During the offseason, he committed heavily to training, working out multiple times a day with his coach, AJ Diggs. Without George and with Kawhi Leonard facing injury issues, the team needed his contributions to fill their 47-point scoring gap.

Powell excelled, boasting a 41.8% shooting accuracy from 3-point range as a lockdown defender, ultimately helping the Clippers secure their playoff spot.

While Powell improved significantly, qualifying for the Most Improved Player award was limited due to missing five games under the 65-game eligibility rule.

This season has launched Powell into discussions about All-Star contention, as he consistently emerged as a key player for his team, especially with Leonard back in action.

On being discussed as the best third option in the league—especially compared to Austin Reaves—Powell said it boils down to roles and preferences in play styles.

“When I’m on the court, I feel I’m the best version of myself. It’s a competitive league, and talking is good for the sport,” Powell noted. He added that being in the mix for these discussions means a lot to him.

Ultimately, Powell’s journey this season has shown that he has progressed beyond expectations. He now has a chance to prove his worth as a standout player in the playoffs, having previously been in more supporting roles. His celebrated remarks about George resonate differently now, emphasising this was his time to shine.