The Miami Heat have a stacked backcourt; however, with All-Star guard Tyler Herro looking to miss an early portion of the regular season, it opens up opportunities for others to shine. They have a talented young rookie in Kasparas Jakucionas, Dru Smith returning from an Achilles tendon injury, and Norman Powell looking to have another All-Star caliber season.
There is another that's looking to claim his own NBA honors: Davion Mitchell.
The Heat acquired the former lottery pick at last season's trade deadline, and it was arguably the biggest steal.
In 30 appearances, Mitchell averaged 10.3 points, 2.7 rebounds, 5.3 assists, 1.4 steals, and shot 50.4 percent from the field, 44.7 percent from three-point range. That's been the best stretch of his career thus far.
The Heat re-signed the 27-year-old this offseason to a two-year, $24 million contract, fully guaranteed, and does not include either a player or team option.
Mitchell quickly emerged as a fan favorite in Miami and he is ready to take another step this season. Of course, team success is the top priority, but the fifth-year guard has his eyes set on an individual accolade as well.
"For me, obviously, defense is my calling card," he said. "Kind of just want to make an All-Defensive team. It's been my mindset. Just try to be disruptive throughout 82 games."
Mitchell is one of the most underrated defensive guards in the league. He showed tremendous flashes throughout his time with the Sacramento Kings and his short stint with the Toronto Raptors.
It is also impressive how great Mitchell is on that side of the court, given his six-foot frame and 6-4 wingspan.
In a league that prioritizes size, even at the guard position, the Heat and Mitchell were a match made in heaven. He always gives his best efforts on defense, heart and hustle, making up for the undersized frame.
Mitchell is smaller in both height and wingspan measurements compared to Jrue Holiday and Derrick White, other famous defensive guards. However, the case could be made that he's in the same category as them.
Mitchell has yet to appear in a preseason game; he's been sidelined due to calf soreness, which was sustained in training camp. It's also likely that the fifth-year guard will serve as a backup point guard.
The Heat are notoriously known for their defensive philosophy, which has been a foundation of the organization for decades. Mitchell fits the bill and could be aligned for another career season, along with All-Defensive team votes.
