As the league's superstars like LeBron James, Stephen Curry or even Kevin Durant age, who will be the new face of the NBA when they retire? Donovan Mitchell has an idea on the matter.
“I can sit here and tell you I want to be one of the faces of the NBA, if not the face, but I have to go out there and do it. I don't see it as pressure.”, announces the former Jazz back. “This is the goal I set for myself a long time ago. »
Recovering the King's throne, Donovan Mitchell is thinking about it. And more than seriously. But for this, “Spida” will have to ensure greater individual and collective success. The Cavaliers guard has been an All-Star for 5 seasons and already selected for an All-NBA Team, but his name never appears in the discussions for the MVP (6th last year). In addition, he never went beyond the second round in the playoffs.
Take a step forward
“I feel like I can achieve it. That only comes with success in the playoffs and that comes with being ready for those big moments.”says the former Jazz player. “I have to prove it. I'm really able to deliver on what I'm saying and not just be able to sit here and tell you these different things. I think I have the ability. I give my all and I have a great group around me. Excellent teammates. I have improved here. Every year I set a goal to improve. Success will come. I will continue to work and do the right things. »
It's already been two years since Mitchell last made it through the first round of the playoffs. He had already lost to the Mavericks during his last year with Utah. Last year, Cleveland lost to the Knicks.
“I remain on two bad consecutive series“, admits Mitchell. “We are judged by what we have done recently. No one really cares what happened before. I finally accept it. »
Perform well in the playoffs
Mitchell is well aware that his personal success and recognition will have to come through convincing and victorious playoff series. To become a great player, you have to play great matches. And win them.
“Obviously, we are judged on conference finals and Finals. This is my state of mind. That's kind of where I'm at and where my head is.”confides Mitchell. “The first round, the second round, it’s cool. I take it one turn at a time. But my goal is to reach the conference finals and get to the NBA Finals… That’s what I’ll be judged on. »
