Toronto Raptors guard Norman Powell is having a breakout year.
As a result, executives around the league expect the rising star to be rewarded with a massive payday.
“Powell is a borderline lock to decline his $11 million player option for next season, raising a pressing dilemma for the Raptors,” wrote Zach Lowe of ESPN.com. “Powell is going to get capital-P paid; executives expect a $20 million annual salary.”
Powell, 27, was the No. 46 pick in the 2015 NBA Draft.
However, over the last few years, Powell has looked like a first-round draft pick. The veteran has emerged as one of the Raptors’ best players.
As a matter of fact, Powell is collecting a career-high 19.6 points on 49.6 percent shooting from the field and 44.4 percent shooting from downtown per game this season. He’s also putting up 3.1 boards, 1.8 assists and 1.1 steals per contest.
On the dark side, the Raptors are struggling. The 2019 champs hold a 17-25 record and are the No. 11 seed in the Eastern Conference.
The Raptors are reportedly discussing deals with other teams for stalwart Kyle Lowry.
