Date of Birth; September 7, 1996
Position: Shooting Guard
College: Louisville
Measurements: 6’3″, 210 Ibs
Strengths:
Donovan Mitchell excels on defense. He possesses a 6’10” wingspan and a physical frame allowing him to lockdown opposing guards. His quick feet and active hands allowed him to average 2.1 steals per game last season. When he’s at his best, his defense turns into offense. He’s got one of the highest vertical jumps in this draft.
He’s a quick decision maker and isn’t afraid to attack the basketball. His wing span and lateral quickness makes it difficult for opposing guards to drive or shoot over him. Towards the end of the above clip, Mitchell did a great job contesting the three-point shot. Mitchell’s high basketball IQ allows him to play physical and keep his foul totals low.
Weaknesses:
Outside of attacking the rim, he doesn’t have a great offensive game. Mitchell struggled as a playmaker averaging only 2.7 assists per game. He’s known for making bad decisions with the basketball and is known for playing too fast.
His jump shot is improving but is still a notable weakness. He shot 40.8 percent from the field last season and needs to be more of a consistent scorer.
Risks:
A team that drafts Donovan Mitchell will be relying on the fact that he can become a two-way player. His three point shot improved from 25 to 35 percent in his two collegiate seasons. It’s promising, but his shots will be more contested in the NBA.
If Mitchell can’t become that two-way player, his defense will get him minutes. He’ll be a tough play if his team doesn’t have a lead.
Interesting Stat:
Donovan Mitchell is one of two players this year with 80 three pointers made and 70 steals. The other was Chris Clemons of Campbell.
Comparison:
SG Avery Bradley, Boston Celtics
Mitchell is undersized for a shooting guard but plays bigger than his size. He isn’t afraid to go after loose balls or attack the basket for a second chance opportunity. Both Mitchell and Bradley excel off the ball and have an improving offensive game.
Draft Prediction:
Between picks 8 and 13