Miami Heat guard Davion Mitchell has positioned himself as one of the most promising defensive players in the league. This aspect has been recognized by six-time All-Defense selection and NBA champion Tony Allen, who praised Mitchell’s defensive skills on “Run It Back“.
When asked whether he saw any of the modern players playing ’90s-type defense, Allen initially spoke about how the NBA had seen more players adopt the three-point shot, forcing defensive players out of the league. He then added:
“If I could say anybody that I like watching, I got my little man, Davion Mitchell. He locks up, man. You know what I mean? I keep in tune with him a lot. But this is my chance to give him his shout-out. So shout-out to little Davion.”
Allen’s statement is also worth noting. As the NBA has grown and changed, there has been a visible shift in the archetypes of players in different positions.
With the three-point shot becoming a more commonly used weapon in every player’s arsenal, skills such as defense have often been overlooked. This also aligns with a statement made by 76ers star Paul George, who claimed that the days of the lockdown defender archetype are over.
Although George’s statement overlooks many players who have emerged as tremendous defenders, especially with names like Lu Dort, Evan Mobley, and Amen Thompson among the crop of younger players, there is some truth to it.
In this regard, praise from one of the greatest defensive players in NBA history is a massive acknowledgment of Mitchell’s abilities. When considering the reputation he is developing for himself, it is evident that he is poised to achieve great things.
Mitchell’s development has been a refreshing change. The 27-year-old possesses incredible defensive instincts that complement his desire and effort to stop his mark from scoring. When additionally factoring in his strong build and athleticism, the guard has all the necessary tools to be an effective defensive presence.
While his height would typically be considered a limitation, his physical tools and skills helped him carve out a solid role for himself with the Miami Heat, too. After being traded from the Toronto Raptors, he appeared in 30 games for the Heat, where he averaged 10.3 points, 2.7 rebounds, 5.3 assists, and 1.4 steals per game.
While his contributions on both ends of the floor were impressive, his scoring efficiency is also worth noting, as he shot 50.4% from the field and 44.7% from three-point range.
In key situations, Mitchell showed that he could be a valuable piece on the team, either off the bench or in the starting rotation. Given his impact last season, the Heat offered him a two-year, $24 million deal, securing his position on the roster.
Mitchell is expected to be a core player in the Heat rotation moving forward. As the Heat continue to grow with their new roster, it will be interesting to see what they can accomplish in the upcoming season.
