Golden State Warriors: 5 options for pick No. 7 in 2021 NBA Draft
Golden State Warriors options for pick No. 7: 4. Davion Mitchell, G, Baylor
If Jonathan Kuminga represents the long-term upside play, Davion Mitchell represents the far opposite end of the spectrum. The Baylor guard will turn 23 years old before the start of next season, but he looks tailor-made to step into the NBA and start competing for the Warriors from day one.
Mitchell was a really good player at Baylor prior to this past season, but he took a major step forward last season. He improved his 3-point shot all the way up to 45 percent; was that a real improvement, or simply a hot shooting season? He shot just 64.1 percent from the free-throw line, which seems to suggest he was somewhat lucky to shoot that high. The question isn’t whether he will shoot 45 percent in the NBA, it’s whether he is a 35 or 39 percent shooter.
What the Warriors will most be embracing in Mitchell is his defense. The 6’2″ guard defended every team’s best perimeter player in the Baylor Bears’ run to the NCAA Championship this past spring. He is glad to pick up ball handlers in full court, putting immense pressure at the point of attack. Mitchell is incredibly strong for his size, plays physical, and is a master of taking charges (and selling the contact, to be sure).
Mitchell is also incredibly fast, which helps him on defense (react and beat his man to the spot) and on offense, with a quick first step to fain separation. He is a good offensive conductor with his passing and is willing to move the ball. Overall he is a supreme competitor and will play hard every minute he is on the court.
The Warriors would be taking a player who can guard opposing guards, especially the fastest guards that Klay Thompson always used to pick up. If the shooting is somewhat real he could be good enough as a rookie to join the rotation in the playoffs.
Mitchell is also older, doesn’t have true star upside and would be bucking the odds to be a true contributor in year one in the league. If that is the case, and especially if the shot is a mirage, then the Warriors would be spending the seventh pick on a low-ceiling backup to Stephen Curry when they already have Jordan Poole.