The Davion Mitchell deal between Sacramento and Toronto was hardly mentioned in the media outside of the Raptors’ news circles. However, Mitchell has quietly become one of the NBA’s most impactful defenders, proving his name is worth knowing throughout the 2024-2025 campaign.
Davion Mitchell: Mr. Underrated?
Davion Mitchell is one of the most underrated guards in the NBA. During his three seasons in Sacramento, his defensive skills flourished, but his offensive production left much to be desired. Prior to the 2021 NBA draft, the 26-year-old led Baylor University to a National Championship. After getting picked 9th overall to the Kings, Mitchell entered the league with sky-high potential. His Kings teammates continued to be impressed with Mitchell defensively. When Sacramento sought offensive upgrades and the Raptors needed to address their league-worst defence, the stars aligned for Toronto to acquire Mitchell in the summer of 2024.
Though he doesn’t stuff the stat sheet, Mitchell’s defence has been invaluable, whether off the bench or stepping in as a starter when Immanuel Quickley has been sidelined. Initially brought in as a backup, Mitchell’s impressive early-season performances have sparked conversations about his potential to claim the starting point guard role in the future. Regardless of his role, Mitchell’s ability to lock down opposing guards makes him an essential piece for the Raptors as they navigate this rebuilding phase.
Defence is Undervalued in Today’s NBA
When the Raptors hired Darko Rajakovic as head coach in the summer of 2023, their offensive numbers improved significantly, but their defensive numbers declined. Teams have shifted to an offence-first approach, but as the saying goes, defence wins championships. Defence has become extremely undervalued in a league obsessed with three-point shooting and fast-paced play, which is and continues to be emphasized in the NBA All Star Game on an annual basis. Prospects are increasingly evaluated on their ability to shoot from deep, often at the expense of their defensive skills. This shift has diminished the role of defence-first guards like Mitchell.
Mitchell doesn’t post flashy box score numbers, but a deeper look into advanced metrics—such as opponent field-goal percentage, deflections, and his career high in steals per game—reveals his true impact.
Although his contributions might go unnoticed by casual fans, Mitchell’s teammates have been recognizing his importance.
Via sportsnet.com
Mitchell’s defense-first mentality has already elevated the Raptors from the abysmal defensive showing last season. His tenacity on the perimeter and ability to disrupt opposing offences perfectly complement RJ Barrett and Scottie Barnes, who thrive as primary scoring options. Mitchell has become an integral part of Toronto’s identity and allows the Raptors to find a middle-ground between offence and defence.
Is Mitchell Here to Stay?
While it’s unlikely Mitchell will unseat Immanuel Quickley in the short term, given the five-year 175 Million dollar contract Quickley was awarded in the summer, there’s a case to be made for his defensive value in the starting lineup.
Quickley offers more offensive firepower, but his skill set might be best utilized as a sixth man. A role that can maximize his scoring ability while preserving defensive consistency in the starting lineup. Quickley’s ability to serve as a game-changing spark plug, reminiscent of Lou Williams in his prime, provides the Raptors with a dynamic one-two punch. Meanwhile, Mitchell’s presence in the starting five strengthens the team’s defence and provides Barrett and Barnes with more freedom to create offensively. With the ball in their hands more often they can focus on what they do best—getting buckets! Together, Mitchell’s defensive brilliance and Quickley’s offensive explosiveness form a balanced backcourt rotation that could be instrumental in shaping the Raptors’ future success.
Calling Davion Mitchell the best defender in the NBA might seem bold at first, but it’s not as far-fetched as it sounds. Mitchell’s unshakeable confidence in his ability to lock down opposing guards has been matched by his stellar play in 2024. Players like Mitchell are essential to winning basketball. Just look at Jrue Holiday, who played a pivotal role in winning championships with both the Bucks and the Celtics with his strong defensive play. Mitchell has that same potential to become a game-changer for the Raptors.
The Ultimate Change of Scenery
Mitchell’s defensive prowess sets the tone on that end of the floor while inspiring his teammates to elevate their efforts and buy into a winning culture. Whether or not Mitchell becomes a permanent starter, the Raptors would be wise to prioritize his development. With his ability to shut down elite guards, Mitchell could be a cornerstone of Toronto’s rebuilding efforts. Elite defensive guards have proven time and time again to be critical to championship success, and Mitchell has the potential to follow in their footsteps. Once you find a hidden gem in the rough, you hold onto it—because players like Davion Mitchell don’t come around often.