Utah Jazz: Predicting stats for every starter in 2021-22

Utah Jazz guard Donovan Mitchell 2021-22 stat predictions: 27.0 points per game, 6.1 assists per game, 1.0 steal per game

In stark contrast to Conley Jr., star Utah Jazz guard Donovan Mitchell is at a stage in his career where his assumed trajectory points upwards. By all indications, Spida has the drive, ability and passion to bring that vision into fruition.

However, any opportunity to push his 26.4 points per game from the 2020-21 season into the 30+ range may be difficult to come by in a Quin Snyder system that emphasizes ball-movement. Furthermore, the Utah Jazz are stacked with players who can generate their own offense. They don’t need Mitchell to produce like players in some of the league’s more heliocentric offenses do.

Here, we’re predicting a modest increase in Mitchell’s scoring output that is born purely out of his improvement as a player. We’re also anticipating a more significant increase in his assists per game. An improvement in that area would take Mitchell’s game to the next level: players who are a threat to both score and set-up teammates are more difficult to predict. Mitchell’s 5.2 per night were already a reasonably impressive figure from an off-guard, and he has the general offensive talent to increase that output.

In fact, Mitchell has the talent to exceed these predictions. He is the best offensive player on the Utah Jazz, and 30 points per game is a mark he’s likely to meet at some point in his career. However, heading into 2021-22, his Jazzmen are expected to contend for the NBA championship. His development will not be Quin Snyder’s focal point, and Mitchell’s talented cast of teammates will need room to showcase their own abilities.

Expect growth from Mitchell this season. Just don’t expect, or hope for it, at the expense of his Utah Jazz teammates (or their win total).