Heat's leading scorer Norman Powell suffers groin strain.

2026-02-28 01:09

The Miami Heat suffered a major personnel blow during a crucial phase of the regular season. The team officially announced on Friday that star guard Norman Powell, who just made his first All-Star appearance this season, will be sidelined for at least a week due to a right groin strain.

It is reported that Powell suffered an injury during the first half of the Heat's road loss to the Philadelphia 76ers on Thursday night. A subsequent MRI confirmed a grade one (mild) strain. The Heat have currently listed Powell's injury assessment as "weekly observation."

As a key player who shone brightly in his first season with the Heat, Powell's performance this season has been nothing short of amazing. He is currently not only the team's leading scorer, averaging 22.5 points per game, but his total field goals made, three-pointers made, and free throws made all lead the team.

The data best highlights Powell's irreplaceable role: This season, when Powell scores at least 19 points in a game, the Heat have an excellent record of 22 wins and 16 losses; while when he scores less or is absent, the team's record plummets to 9 wins and 13 losses.

As expected, Powell is projected to miss at least a week of rest, with four games scheduled: a home game against the Houston Rockets this Saturday, consecutive home games against the Brooklyn Nets next Tuesday and Thursday, and an away game against the Charlotte Hornets next Friday.

Image source: Internet/NBA official website