On the surface, Donovan Mitchell is having a sensational year for the Cleveland Cavaliers. The five-time All-Star is putting up 23.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game while shooting an impressive 44.6% from the field, 40.2% from deep, and 83.3% from the line. The Cavaliers are riding high, sitting atop the Eastern Conference standings and poised for a dominant playoff push.
But in true superstar fashion, Mitchell isn’t content. After dropping 33 points in a victory over the Phoenix Suns, the 28-year-old shocked reporters with a brutally honest self-assessment.
“I need to be better”: Mitchell critiques his decision-making
Despite his stellar performance, Mitchell expressed concern about his efficiency and decision-making during the game.
“The shots I took weren’t the greatest tonight or the decisions I should make,” Mitchell admitted postgame. “Not necessarily shots, but the decisions. Just being better. Y’all may look too deep into this, but I just am always a stickler for that. This is probably the first time I really say it as much as I am out loud, but that’s just how I’ve always been, especially now. [I’m] continuing to take that step and be that guy. I want to continue to better myself.”
The efficiency dip: A closer look at Mitchell’s concerns
Mitchell’s frustration stems from a noticeable decline in his true-shooting percentage, which has dipped to 58%—his lowest since joining Cleveland. While still a solid mark, it’s a step back compared to his earlier seasons.
The bigger concern? His finishing at the rim. Historically a strong finisher, Mitchell is converting just 56.7% of his attempts at the basket this season, a stark contrast to his career average of 65% and well below the 70%+ efficiency he maintained in the prior three campaigns.
This dip hasn’t derailed the Cavaliers’ success, but for Mitchell, maintaining top-tier efficiency is key to sustaining the team’s high aspirations.
The drive for greatness
Mitchell’s critical eye for his performance highlights his relentless drive to elevate his game, even as the Cavaliers thrive.
“I’m gonna push myself to be great,” Mitchell emphasized. “You could look at this night and be like, yeah, I had a pretty good game. No, my goal is to be as efficient as possible, take better shots, different things. I’m always gonna be critical of myself. But that’s just always been my way.”
Why Mitchell’s self-criticism matters
For a team with championship ambitions, Mitchell’s self-awareness is a positive sign. It underscores his commitment to growth and accountability—traits that elevate a team’s culture and leadership. With Cleveland eyeing a deep playoff run, Mitchell’s refusal to settle could be the catalyst that propels the Cavaliers to new heights.