Heat are smart to retain valuable guard

Davion Mitchell joined the Miami Heat as part of the trade that saw PJ Tucker head to the Toronto Raptors at the Feb. 6 trade deadline. He immediately endeared himself to Erik Spoelstra and the Heat's coaching staff, earning a spot in the rotation. 

However, question marks hung over Mitchell's head due to his impending restricted free agency. On Saturday, June 28, ESPN's Shams Charania reported that Mitchell "intends" to re-sign with the Heat on a two-year $24 million deal.

"Restricted free agent Davion Mitchell intends to sign a two-year, $24 million deal to return to the Miami Heat, sources told ESPN," Charania reported. "Heat officials and Mitchell's agent, Josh Beauregard-Bell of Wasserman, negotiated the new fully guaranteed contract."

Mitchell is a defensive specialist. He thrives at the point-of-attack but can also operate as a chaser, switch defender or when cross-matching onto bigger opponents. He gives the Heat a versatile presence next to Tyler Herro, or when coming off the bench.

According to Cleaning The Glass, the Heat were 4.9 points per 100 possessions better with Mitchell on the floor last season. When he was on the court, Spoelstra's team outscored opponents by four points per 100. However, when Mitchell was on the bench, Miami lost its possessions by -0.9 points per 100. 

Therefore, keeping Mitchell has a clear upside in the short term. Spoelstra will likely lean into his defensive skill set to help ease the pressure on rookie guard Kasparas Jakucionis, who has a long way to go in terms of NBA-level defense. 

Mitchell can help keep the Heat's rearguard honest as they continue to retool a roster that has struggled of late. He's not going to lead the team in points or assists, but his value will be felt in every game. His impact befits his new contract, and if he can stay healthy, his stay in Miami could prove to be a long one.