2. Donovan Mitchell
The Los Angeles Lakers are going to have their hands full trying to slow down Donovan Mitchell. The former Louisville product heats up quicker than a microwave and the Thunder saw that first hand in the season opener.
Mitchell lit up Oklahoma City for 32 points, leading the way on a night that Conley’s shot wasn’t falling. He made 14-of-22 from the field, including one 3-pointer, adding 12 rebounds, three assists, one steal and only one turnover in 36 minutes.
If the Lakers can slow down Mitchell, it will give them a much greater chance of taking home a victory. However, that is easier said than done.
The Lakers struggled at times to slow down the opposing backcourt in their season opener. Lou Williams shot 8-of-14 from the field for 21 points. Landry Shamet was 3-of-8 from the field, knocking down 2-of-4 from deep, as the Lakers lost him multiple times defensively.
Los Angeles will have to clean that up. Better performances from players such as Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Troy Daniels and Quinn Cook would go a long way in accomplishing that.