Donovan Mitchell kept it humble when asked about an honor only a few in NBA accomplished: “I’d be happy and forever grateful”
Donovan Mitchell blossomed into one of the NBA's top guards as a member of the Utah Jazz. But Mitchell isn't sure that's enough to cement him as one of the top players in the history of the Jazz organization.
The Utah Jazz selected Donovan Mitchell with the 13th pick in the 2017 draft. During his five seasons in Utah, Mitchell became a rising star in the NBA. He was a three-time All-Star and the engine behind one of the Western Conference's most talented teams.
At the end of last season, Mitchell and the Jazz found themselves at a crossroads. The Jazz have been one of the West's top teams for several seasons. But that didn't translate into contending for a championship.
Utah decided to go in another direction, trading Mitchell to the Cleveland Cavaliers (and Rudy Gobert to the Minnesota Timberwolves) in the offseason. It was a massive development as the Jazz moved on from their franchise superstar.
In a recent interview with NBA analyst Marc Spears, Mitchell was asked if he believes his jersey should be retired by the Jazz. The superstar guard said:
“I don’t think I did enough. I hold myself to a high standard. Now, other people may feel that it should. I’d be happy and forever grateful — but I don’t think I’ve done enough in five years to have my jersey up there.”
Donovan Mitchell on if his jersey should be retired by Utah:
“I don’t think I did enough. I hold myself to a high standard. Now, other people may feel that it should. I’d be happy and forever grateful — But I don’t think I’ve done enough in 5 years to have my jersey up there...” https://t.co/6PKb0L2Ehe
Donovan Mitchell and Cleveland Cavaliers off to strong start
Donovan Mitchell cemented himself as one of the NBA's top guards with the Utah Jazz. Now, he has his focus set on trying to carry the Cleveland Cavaliers to the next level.
The Cleveland Cavaliers have been one of the most impressive teams this season. Cleveland (20-11) and is in the midst of a three-game winning streak.
Donovan Mitchell was dominant as Cleveland picked up the road W.
34 PTS
3 REB
4 AST
6 3PM https://t.co/ptRqsdjfAm
Mitchell and the Cavaliers will take on the Utah Jazz (17-15) on Monday night.
The Cavaliers have won four of their last five games and Mitchell has been spectacular. In his last four games, Mitchell is averaging 32.0 points, 3.3 rebounds and 2.8 assists per game. He's also shooting 53.9%, including 42.5% from 3-point range, during that stretch.
Cleveland, currently third in the Eastern Conference, will welcome the Milwaukee Bucks on Wednesday in a showdown between two of the East's top teams. The Bucks (21-8), who lead the conference, are at the New Orleans Pelicans (18-11) on Monday night.