Pelle Larsson may be playing Heat favorite out of a new contract

"Larsson may only be averaging 11 points, three rebounds, and three assists on 49 percent shooting from the field this season, but it's difficult not to be impressed when watching him play. Add in the fact that he's solidified himself as a starter, even when the Heat have been completely healthy, and it's easy to see that he's already won Erik Spoelstra's trust."

"Larsson is also coming off a career-high performance in which he finished with 28 points, six rebounds, and six assists. In this game specifically, he was a big part of the Heat's success without Herro and Powell, who were both out with an injury."

"Powell is in the final year of his contract and will hit unrestricted free agency this summer. He's had a great season for the Heat, earning the first All-Star honor of his career thus far. However, he has struggled with injuries for the majority of this season."

Pelle Larsson's impressive emergence in his second season is creating uncertainty around the Miami Heat's future with Norman Powell. Larsson has solidified himself as a starter and earned Erik Spoelstra's trust, averaging 11 points, three rebounds, and three assists on 49 percent shooting. His recent career-high 28-point performance demonstrated his capability to lead the team when key players are injured. Powell, currently in the final year of his contract heading toward unrestricted free agency, earned his first All-Star selection but has battled injuries throughout the season. With Larsson's developmental leap and a healthy Tyler Herro potentially available, the Heat may question whether extending Powell remains necessary.

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