The premature end of the season for some NBA stars has obviously had consequences. After the rumors surrounding Damian Lillard swelled, it was another high-profile player’s turn to take center stage. And this is Donovan Mitchell, franchise player of Jazz!
Author of 26 points, 4 rebounds and 5 assists on average this year, Donovan Mitchell individually justified his new max contract, which will begin this summer (163 million over 5 years). On top of that, Utah had a superb regular campaign, finishing with the best record in the league and Rudy Gobert named Defenseman of the Year.
Unfortunately, none of this was enough to go far in the playoffs, with an elimination in the second round against the Clippers (4-2). A huge disappointment for Spida… which could have terrible consequences. Indeed, as revealed by Brian Windhorst ofESPN, the scorer would not count on making old bones in Jazz!
“I think Dwyane Wade is seriously concerned about Donovan Mitchell’s desire to stay [in Utah] long-term.”
– Brian Windhorst
(Via The Hoop Collective Podcast) pic.twitter.com/bzYWiCmEsN
— NBA Central (@TheNBACentral) June 29, 2021
Brian Windhorst: I think Dwyane Wade, whom Ryan Smith brought in to be part owner but also a team advisor, is seriously concerned about Donovan Mitchell’s desire to stay in Utah for the long haul.
This is news that will not reassure the Mormon fan base at all. While he’s been a hit for four years now with Utah, Mitchell still hasn’t seen even a conference final. His comments after the elimination against LA showed it, the boy was boiling with rage. Atmosphere …
Result, it will be necessary to be imaginative to calm the spirits of the back, and it can start with the front office. GM Dennis Lindsey has thus abandoned his post in order to withdraw, a sign of a possible change in the mentality of the franchise. In addition, it is rumored that Danny Ainge, ex-Boston sports boss could join the organization chart. Will this be enough? Nothing is less sure.
While the summer of 2021 should a priori be fairly calm, we could finally witness a pretty crazy offseason. Lillard and Mitchell on the way to leaving, this is something of interest to all the franchises in the league!
