The sophomore slump was an accurate descriptor for the first half of Donovan Mitchell’s second season. Through 34 games played, Mitchell while scoring near last season’s averages, saw a drop in his points, rebounds, and assists per game, with drops in his shooting percentages across the board.
Despite scoring over 20 points per game, Mitchell was shooting a subpar 40% from the floor and 29% from three. While the Jazz needed his scoring punch, a more efficient Mitchell could have led the Jazz to more wins, despite the brutal strength of schedule.
But on the Jazz most recent road trip, Mitchell appears to have not just regained his all-star form, he’s surpassed last season’s high level of play.
Over his last five games, Mitchell has posted scoring totals of 18, 26, 26, 33, and 33, but more importantly, has shot 45% or better in four of the five outings, including three outings over 57%. He’s also red hot from the three point line, connecting on 18 of his last 31 attempts, good for 58%.
Over his last five games, Mitchell is averaging 27.2 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 5.4 assists, shooting 50% from the floor and 58% from three.
While Mitchell won’t be able to continue these shooting numbers over the rest of the season, an improvement in his finishing at the rim, and a climb in his numbers from the three point line should propel the Jazz back into the Western Conference Playoffs, and re-establish Mitchell as one of the league’s best players.
Quin Snyder on Donovan Mitchell’s game: He was ready to go tonight pic.twitter.com/5GQQKJNdrA
— JP Chunga (@JP_Chunga) January 12, 2019
