In a shake-up involving the Los Angeles Clippers, Miami Heat, and Utah Jazz, each franchise reshuffles its roster with clear intentions. After averaging 21.8 points last season, Norman Powell now joins Miami, adding depth on the wing and forming a new Big Three alongside Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo.
John Collins begins a fresh chapter in Los Angeles, providing the Clippers with the size and frontcourt athleticism they’ve been craving to pair with Kawhi Leonard and James Harden. As for Utah, they continue leaning into a rebuild, acquiring experienced players and a second-round pick while parting ways with an underutilized asset.
Full Trade Breakdown:
Miami Heat Receive: Norman Powell
Los Angeles Clippers Receive: John Collins
Utah Jazz Receive: Kevin Love, Kyle Anderson, 2027 second-round pick
Let’s evaluate how each team and player fares after this complex exchange.
Miami Heat: A
By acquiring Powell, the Heat add a proven two-way threat — a slashing, playoff-tested scorer who defends well and fits perfectly with their core. At 32, Powell’s expiring $20.5M contract also keeps future options wide open.
His 41.8% shooting from deep and ability to disrupt opposing wings make him a strong complement to Herro and Adebayo’s skill sets. With the championship window still open, adding Powell is a major win — both for now and for the financial flexibility ahead.
Los Angeles Clippers: B+
The Clippers opt for interior strength, exchanging Powell’s scoring ability for Collins’s size, rebounding, and versatility. Collins brings in averages of 19 points on 52.7% shooting and 8.2 rebounds, fitting the stretch-four role the team lacked.
They do lose a valuable wing presence, but gain a more balanced lineup and long-term options. If Collins thrives in this new system, the trade could pay big dividends. A projected starting group featuring James Harden, Kawhi Leonard, John Collins, and Ivica Zubac offers exciting potential.
Utah Jazz: C+
The Jazz trade away Collins for veteran contracts and a future draft pick — signaling a deeper dive into rebuilding. Kevin Love (expiring at $4.15M) and Kyle Anderson (under contract for $9.65M through 2026–27) bring leadership and utility. Meanwhile, the 2027 second-rounder adds some long-term value.
However, parting with Collins subtracts a reliable offensive presence and athletic ceiling. While the return fits a rebuilding strategy, it comes at the cost of competitive edge in the short term.
John Collins: A
For Collins, this is a golden opportunity. A move to L.A. puts him in a major market and a title-chasing situation where his talents can shine. He’s entering his prime, and a strong season could lead to a major contract, whether in L.A. or elsewhere.
The Clippers’ system could bring out the best in his shooting and off-ball movement. “This clean slate is exactly what he needed, because he believes in himself to reach prime starting status or potentially All-Star level.”
With $26.58M owed in 2025–26 and free agency looming afterward, Collins is betting on himself — and this may be the ideal place to do it. “Hopefully, Collins can find a way to form a Big Three alongside Leonard and Harden because he has the talent to do it.”
Norman Powell: A
Powell finds an ideal home in Miami. His leadership, scoring punch, and adaptability make him a great fit in a tightly knit, competitive roster. Leaving the Clippers for South Beach isn’t a bad switch either — especially with a legitimate shot at a championship.
“And with the freedom to chase a new contract next summer, this trade offers both immediate impact and individual upside.” Powell not only gets a chance to compete, but also sets himself up for one more big payday. “For Powell, this is a truly winning move and also a change of atmosphere, considering the Clippers were going to move the 32-year-old eventually.”
