Donovan Mitchell has recently voiced his belief that he ranks among the top 10-15 players in the NBA. Despite his impressive individual performances and consistent playoff appearances, Mitchell feels that his inability to reach a conference final has hindered the recognition he deserves.
During an appearance on Carmelo Anthony’s ‘7 PM in Brooklyn’ podcast, Mitchell expressed his confidence in his abilities, stating,
“Realistically, I look at myself as one of the top 10, top 15 players in this league, but I haven’t made it to a conference final. So for me to make that jump, I can’t sit here and get mad. I can sit here and get mad and use it as fuel. It’s an accolade-based world we live in, whether it’s right, wrong, or indifferent. For whatever reason, that’s just what it is”.
Donovan Mitchell thinks he belongs in the conversation of the best in the league
New episode dropping tomorrow! pic.twitter.com/8DU8H338MM
— 7PM in Brooklyn (@7PMinBrooklyn) September 23, 2024
Mitchell’s journey in the NBA has been marked by significant achievements. Since being drafted by the Utah Jazz in 2017, he has consistently led his teams to the playoffs. His tenure with the Jazz saw him come closest to a conference final in 2021, when they were the first seed in the Western Conference but fell to the LA Clippers in the second round.
After being traded to the Cavaliers in 2022, Mitchell continued to showcase his talent, helping the team win a playoff series in the post-LeBron James era. However, the Cavaliers have often faced tough competition, such as the Boston Celtics, who eliminated them last season.
Mitchell’s assertion about the lack of respect stems from the high standards set in the NBA, where accolades and deep playoff runs often define a player’s legacy. While his individual stats and performances are stellar, the absence of a conference final appearance seems to overshadow his contributions. This sentiment is echoed by many analysts who acknowledge his talent but point to the need for tangible success in the playoffs.
As Mitchell enters his eighth season, he remains determined to break through this barrier. The Cavaliers, with their mix of young talent and experienced veterans, are poised to make a deeper playoff run. For Mitchell, reaching the conference finals would not only validate his self-assessment but also solidify his place among the NBA’s elite.
