Trade Deadline Day has come and past, and while Toronto fans didn’t have to deal with the heartache of losing longtime Raptor Kyle Lowry, they did suffer some heartache at the loss of Norman Powell.
Stormin’ Norman was dealt to the Portland Trail Blazers in exchange for Gary Trent Jr. and Rodney Hood. In Portland, Powell will likely have a more realistic shot at making some noise in playoffs, possibly reincarnating the “Playoff Powell” Raps fans know so well.
While Powell was hugely important to the development of the Raps team that tromped their way to a championship, the Raptors team was equally important to Powell. That much was abundantly evident in Powell’s farewell message to the team and the fans, in which you can feel his heartfelt sentiment.
Honestly words can’t describe how thankful I am for the Toronto Raptors organization. You gave this kid from southeast San Diego a chance to fulfill a childhood dream of not only playing in the NBA but also winning a NBA Championship. From the moment I got out the car in Maple Leaf Square for my pre draft workout in 2015, I felt Toronto was the place for me. I’m truly going to miss the city, fans, my teammates and all the relationships I’ve built over the past 6 years. Thank you for embracing me and my Understand The Grind mentality as one of your own. The love and support never went unnoticed. I am grateful and blessed with many memories and experiences that I’ll never forget. Toronto will always be in my heart. I’m looking forward to the next chapter and the journey ahead. - With immense love Stormin Norman ...The Grind Continues #UTG
Did anyone bring tissues? We’re leaking over here.
(via Instagram/Norman Powell)
