The Milwaukee Bucks' lack of a perimeter stopper is no secret in the NBA. With Damian Lillard and Malik Beasley starting in Milwaukee's backcourt, the Bucks' perimeter defense resembles a sieve more than a wall. That's why it might make sense for the organization to consider trading for Sacramento Kings guard Davion Mitchell.
Mitchell, who was selected with the 9th overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, quickly became known as one of the top defenders in college basketball during his time at Baylor University. Despite carrying that reputation into the NBA, he appears to have lost favor with the Kings' coaching staff and has seen his minutes substantially decrease in his third season.
Change of scenery needed
Mitchell hit the ground running in his rookie season, averaging 11.5 points and 4.2 assists. However, his playing time dipped to 18 minutes last season and has bottomed out at 12 minutes per contest this season, leading to subpar numbers of 3.5 points and 1.7 assists per game.
Mitchell's talent and tenacity are there, but the minutes and opportunities aren't based on what he's seen this season. Could an address change be what turns Mitchell's career around?
"Mitchell could be a prime change-of-scenery candidate. He's a willing passer, assisting on 18.4 percent of his teammates' field goals. With Lillard, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Khris Middleton, and Cam Payne ahead in the pecking order of initiators, that figure could rise if Mitchell donned a Bucks jersey," Alex Skov of Brew Hoop wrote.
Point-of-attack defender
More than anything, Mitchell's defense-first approach to the game would be valuable to the Bucks, especially after they lost their best point-of-attack defender, Jrue Holiday, in the trade for Lillard this past offseason.
With a nickname like "Off Night," Mitchell has proven to be a pesky and disruptive defender, constantly hounding opposing guards with his lightning-quick feet and active hands.
"Given his defense-first attitude, Mitchell could latch onto this mentality and prove to be a useful addition to the team in Milwaukee while a trade for him would open up a roster spot for another acquisition, be it via trade or the buyout market," Skov continued.
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