Trading Terrence Ross to Orlando opens steady playing time for Norm Powell down the stretch. No pressure.
CHICAGO—Presented with the most clearly defined role of his short NBA career, Norm Powell is now firmly under pressure to produce.
By dealing away Terrence Ross to obtain much-needed front-court help — Serge Ibaka of the Magic — the Raptors have rolled the dice that Powell is ready to assume a hefty role as the primary back-court backup on the roster.
No longer just a spot starter who spends game after game after game buried on the bench when the full roster in intact, Powell needs to produce in a consistent role.