Damian Lillard
This one is purely an offensive-based evaluation, but should make Jazz fans excited. Since entering the league in 2012, Damian Lillard has been a dominant offensive player, capable of going off for 30-plus in any game.
As a rookie, he scored 19 points a game on his way to Rookie of the Year honors. Donovan Mitchell is not likely going to be given the opportunity to take control of the offense and put up those types of numbers. That being said, if given the reins, he has the skill set to do it.
In terms of size, athleticism and offensive tendencies, they are very similar. Both are listed at 6-foot-3, with near 40-inch verticals. We see Lillard consistently use that athleticism to beat his man off the dribble and challenge bigger players at the basket.
You can’t dunk on everyone, though, and Mitchell will need to develop a bit more touch when finishing around the rim. He also needs to get better at jumping off of one foot. If he can develop those skills, he should be able to keep score more effectively, and if he can create contact, he should get easy points from the free throw line.
Both have an effortless jump shot as well. Whether they are shooting off the dribble, coming off a pick n’ roll, or spotting up. The shot always seems smooth.
Here is a look at Mitchell crossing over a defender and immediately pulling up into the three
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Now here is Lillard pulling off a similar move —
Over the course of his career, Lillard has shot 37 percent from three, all while shooting an insane seven attempts per game. Mitchell is not likely to get that type of green light as a rookie, but during his Sophomore season at Louisville, he shot 35 percent from three while taking 6.6 attempts per game.
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Mitchell has the skill set to be a volume scorer like Damian Lillard on offense, all while playing suffocating defense on the other end of the court.
And THAT should get Jazz fans excited.