Los Angeles Lakers get high mark in complete 2017 NBA Draft first round grades
DONOVAN MITCHELL. B+. . Shooting Guard/Point Guard. Utah Jazz
With the 13th overall pick, the Denver Nuggets were supposed to be selecting. However, they ended up trading the pick to the Utah Jazz for Trey Lyles and the 24th overall pick. The Jazz would use the pick they acquired to select Donovan Mitchell from Louisville.
The Jazz had a very good 2016-17 season. They were able to advance to the second round of the playoffs after defeating the Los Angeles Clippers. Following that win, the Jazz ran into the Golden State Warriors and were obviously out-matched.
While the Jazz did have one of the best defenses in the NBA, they did lack some punch on offense. The addition of Mitchell should help them in that area. Mitchell had a very strong second season at Lousiville, as he averaged 15.6 points per game.
With an ability to play and defend both guard positions, Mitchell could be a very valuable piece for the Jazz off the bench. With some key players like Gordon Hayward being free agents, Mitchell at least gives the Jazz some versatility in their backcourt.
As a player that comes from a good defensive school at Lousiville, Mitchell should fit in very nicely with Jazz. Free agency will be important for the Jazz, but they made a good pick in Mitchell to start their offseason.