Donovan Mitchell has been playing at a high level since making his NBA debut in 2017 with the Jazz. That’s no secret. But he may be better than ever with the Cavaliers today.
Mitchell, 28, continues to show areas of growth and improvement as the Cavs enter Sunday’s game at Milwaukee with the league’s best record (52-10) and longest winning streak (12 games). Mitchell is averaging 24.4 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 4.7 assists.
While these statistics may seem modest compared to some of Mitchell’s career highs, his efficiency this season has been exceptional. The All-Star guard is shooting a career-best .388 percent from beyond the arc, surpassing his previous high of .386 percent, set during the 2020-21 season. But context is important. During that season, Mitchell attempted 8.7 3-pointers per game in 33.4 minutes of play.
This year, Mitchell has increased his 3-point attempts to more than nine per game, despite playing a career-low 31.3 minutes. With about a month left in the regular season, Mitchell has a chance to solidify this year as one of the most efficient shooting seasons of his career. That said, there’s also the possibility that his 3-point percentage could dip below 38 percent as the season progresses.
Regardless of where that percentage lands, Mitchell’s efficiency — combined with his increased three-point attempts and reduced minutes — illustrates just how much he’s helping to lead these Cavaliers in so many areas.
It also highlights the impact of Cavs coach Kenny Atkinson (as if we needed another example), as Atkinson has helped maximize Mitchell’s game, along with everyone else on the roster.
As the playoffs approach, Cleveland will need a rested Mitchell capable of providing elite scoring in any volume. And it appears that’s exactly what the Cavaliers will once again receive.
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