The Los Angeles Clippers are reshaping their roster with both the present and future in mind. According to HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto, the team was “reluctant to give Norman Powell a long-term extension” as he enters the final year of his $20.48 million deal. With Kawhi Leonard and James Harden already signed through 2026-27, the Clippers have set their sights on freeing up significant cap space for 2027 — a critical pivot year in their long-term strategy.
In a three-team trade reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Clippers sent Powell to the Miami Heat and received power forward John Collins from the Utah Jazz. As part of the deal, the Jazz acquired Kevin Love, Kyle Anderson, and a 2027 second-round pick from L.A.
Clippers Ship Out Norman Powell to Prioritize 2027 Cap Space, Add John Collins in Frontcourt Upgrade
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The move signals a clear shift in priorities for the Clippers: bolster the frontcourt now while remaining flexible for the future. While Powell was coming off a career-best season — averaging 21.8 points per game on 48.4% shooting and a scorching 41.8% from three — the front office was unwilling to invest long-term. His expiring contract made him a logical trade piece in a deal that lands them the versatile Collins, whom they had long coveted.
Collins gives the Clippers immediate frontcourt help alongside Ivica Zubac. Over the last two seasons in Utah, the 27-year-old averaged 16.5 points and 8.4 rebounds while shooting over 38% from deep. His athleticism, rebounding, and pick-and-roll efficiency make him an ideal fit in James Harden-led lineups.
Crucially, this trade also positions the Clippers roughly $7 million below the first tax apron, giving them room to potentially pursue veteran free agents like Bradley Beal or Chris Paul. Both have been linked to L.A., and with Powell’s contract off the books, there’s a pathway to make another splash.
The Clippers’ vision is clear: contend now with a more balanced and athletic roster, while preserving enough flexibility to chase a max-level star in 2027. Norman Powell played a key role in recent seasons, but in a league driven by timing, opportunity, and cap management, L.A. made a proactive — and calculated — move to prepare for the next era.