Reason for Key Clippers Player’s Preseason Absence Revealed

LA Clippers guard Norman Powell did not travel with the team against the Trail Blazers

Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) and forward Norman Powell (24) watch game action against the Orlando Magic during the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images / Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

The LA Clippers faced off against the Portland Trail Blazers in an exciting preseason game last night, but one key member of the team didn't travel. Clippers guard Norman Powell did not play against the Portland Trail Blazers due to a minor injury.

According to Law Murray of The Athletic, Norman Powell did not travel with the Clippers to Seattle due to low back soreness. Powell's injury is expected to be a short-term absence, so it doesn't sound like he'll be missing opening night against the Phoenix Suns on October 23.

Norman Powell is not on the trip to Seattle due to low back soreness.

Expected to be a short term absence. We will get a third different Clippers starting lineup tonight

— Law Murray 🏟️ (@LawMurrayTheNU) October 11, 2024

While it hasn't been confirmed what the Clippers starting lineup will be this season, it's looking like Norman Powell will have a legitimate case to start. Numerous times throughout the preseason, Powell has mentioned that he wants to start and that he's put the work in to become a starter.

"Honing in on the defensive end," Powell said. "They want me going back to my earlier days when I was guarding the ball and being a two-way player… Everybody knows I can score and put the ball in the basket. They’re not questioning that. But can they count on me to not make the mistakes off the ball?”

Honest answer from Norman Powell when I asked him what he needs to do in order to start on this team.

Powell: “Honing in on the defensive end… They want me going back to my earlier days when I was guarding the ball and being a two-way player… Everybody knows I can score and… pic.twitter.com/r6p9F66brp

— Joey Linn (@joeylinn_) October 6, 2024

Defensively, pairing Norman Powell and James Harden together defensively might be an issue. However, if Powell has been honing in on the defensive end, the Clippers could absolutely use his offensive punch.

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