Grading the Cleveland Cavaliers guards’ play so far this season

Examining Donovan Mitchell’s play so far this season

The trade for Donovan Mitchell was one that involved the Cavaliers conceding a lot to the Utah Jazz last offseason, but it was understandable, and Mitchell has had a career season to this point. Him being an All-Star starter for the first time on Sunday was fitting.

Mitchell has had career-bests in points per game (27.3), three-point percentage (38.7) and true shooting percentage (61.6), and he’s seventh in three-pointers made with 182. The expectations were high coming into the season for Mitchell with the Cavs, and even with that, he’s been even better than one could’ve anticipated this year in a new situation.

He had some underwhelming outings last month, and had a tough initial start to February, thanks somewhat due to a groin injury, but he’s picked things back up leading into the All-Star break. By and large, Mitchell’s shot-making, driving and playmaking have all been instrumental for Cleveland. His defense has been far better than in recent prior seasons, too, and Mitchell’s had his share of big contested rebounds.

The 26-year-old has put it all together this season, and his leadership has been key for other guys such as Garland, Evan Mobley and the youngsters, and Mitchell’s playoff experiences should prove invaluable down the road.

Mitchell’s 2022-23 grade thus far: A

Mitchell has rightfully earned an “A” mark for his pre-All-Star break play, for his elite three-level scoring, playmaking help and off-floor impact.