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Detroit Pistons draft targets: Guard edition

By David Topham

Jan 17, 2017; Raleigh, NC, USA; North Carolina State Wolfpack guard Dennis Smith Jr. (4) dribbles the ball during the first half against the Pitt Panthers at PNC Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rob Kinnan-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 17, 2017; Raleigh, NC, USA; North Carolina State Wolfpack guard Dennis Smith Jr. (4) dribbles the ball during the first half against the Pitt Panthers at PNC Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rob Kinnan-USA TODAY Sports /
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Feb 4, 2017; Chestnut Hill, MA, USA; Louisville Cardinals guard Donovan Mitchell (45) controls the ball during the second half against the Boston College Eagles at Silvio O. Conte Forum. The Louisville Cardinals won 90-67. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 4, 2017; Chestnut Hill, MA, USA; Louisville Cardinals guard Donovan Mitchell (45) controls the ball during the second half against the Boston College Eagles at Silvio O. Conte Forum. The Louisville Cardinals won 90-67. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports /

Donovan Mitchell | SG/PG | 6’3” | 20 years old | Louisville

  • Stats last season: 34 games, 32.3 minutes, .408 FG%, .354 3P%, .806 FT%, 15.6 points, 4.9 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 2.1 steals, 0.5 blocks per game
  • Draft range: 8-22, pretty likely to be available
  • Why he fits in Detroit: The Pistons would welcome Donovan Mitchell’s aggressive defense, explosive athleticism and three-point shooting ability with open arms. By all accounts, Mitchell is a hard working and high character individual, which we know pleases Stan Van Gundy and Jeff Bower.

Mitchell is entering the NBA Draft after breaking out during his sophomore season at Louisville, where he made first-team All-ACC and the All-Defensive first team.

Mitchell makes his hay on defense thanks to his impressive physical tools. He has rangy arms with his 6’10” wingspan, great feet, a strong frame and speed. He was also known for being a scraper and going all out.

But the Pistons may covet him more for his offensive abilities. Scouts believe Mitchell’s shooting projects well thanks to his balance, rise and pure follow through. He’s also got an insane 40.5” max vertical that he uses to attack the rim, although he doesn’t do that nearly enough.

While he’s got a long way to go, Mitchell also tremendously improved as the ball handler in pick and roll sets last season. He proved himself to be a capable playmaker, though his decision making often left too much to be desired.

Mitchell’s lack of size and out-of-control tendencies may thwart his abilities to thrive at the next level, but there’s plenty enough to like to take him at No. 12.