2021 NBA Draft — 6. Davion Mitchell, Oklahoma City Thunder
A potential big riser who may earn a top-5 spot on my draft board, Davion Mitchell led Baylor all the way to the national championship. The Thunder are a blank slate, and could use talent at just about every position. The goal is simple — aim for upside, talent. Mitchell has both, and he’s going to contribute right away, to boot.
Mitchell was one of the best defenders in college basketball at 6-foot-3, fighting over screens and bodying up bigger wings, even without elite physical tools. On offense, Mitchell is a diverse talent, with excellent finishing skills at the rim, a nifty dribble package, and the shot-making gene common in most All-Star guards at the next level.
While physical tools have often been the butter on OKC’s bread, there’s reason to believe OKC will go best player available. Many would consider that to be Mitchell, who would immediately form a fascinating backcourt combination with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Kemba Walker isn’t there for much more than a cup of coffee, but he could also serve as a tremendous mentor in the short-term.