Heat’s Norman Powell Will Play Through Groin Soreness as Play-In Nears

Overview

• Powell, who was listed as questionable Thursday in Toronto, said after shootaround he feels good and will play against the Raptors.
• He said the soreness comes from accumulated stress and scar tissue rather than a new tear, which explains why it flares after workouts and games.
• Powell acknowledged he cannot reach 100% without extended rest and full rehab, which he expects to address in the offseason.
• With the Heat locked into the play-in, the team finishes at Washington on Friday and at Atlanta on Sunday before a play-in game early next week, leaving little time to heal.
• The 32-year-old has missed 23 games yet leads Miami at 21.9 points per game, made his first All-Star team, and is in a $20.5 million contract year that could hinge on his durability.