Donovan Mitchell: A chance to cement himself as a Cavs legend

Mitchell is on pace to be a long-term Cleveland icon.

Donovan Mitchell signed one of the most important extensions in Cleveland Cavaliers history this summer. Mitchell can solidify himself as a franchise legend if he continues to be the All-NBA caliber player he’s been since arriving.

Many have questioned the original decision to trade for Mitchell. Did the Cavs jump the gun in trading for a superstar before their young core was truly ready to compete? Was it a futile move when no one believed Mitchell would extend long-term with the franchise? Is he even good enough to warrant the package that was sent to Utah — was this all for nothing?

Mitchell hasn’t answered every question just yet. But he’s silenced most of them.

You couldn’t dream up a better basketball star for Cleveland (unless you imagine a homegrown hero emerging from Akron and leading the franchise to its first title). Mitchell has embraced the Land from day one, routinely praising the city and showing his commitment with a three-year extension this summer. But Mitchell has done more than rate highly on the “gets us” scale — he’s been a legit superstar since donning a Cavalier jersey.

Mitchell is the full package. He’s an All-NBA caliber player who has raised the team’s ceiling and lifted them to a second round series for the first time without LeBron James since the 1990s. He’s a gifted athlete, a phenomenal three-point shooter and recorded the best playmaking season of his career last year.

The Cavaliers are in a position to compete because of Mitchell’s greatness. He has a case to be the third-best player in the conference and has proven he can elevate his game on the biggest stage. So, what’s next for the 28-year-old guard?

There’s no doubt Mitchell will score in bunches again this season. He’s a three-level scorer who’s grown more efficient with age. But his growth as a leader was a standout from last season. Mitchell not only averaged a career-high in assists but seemingly matured as a decision-maker, trusting his teammates in key moments. This maturity will be key to reaching the next level for Mitchell.

Mitchell is entering the thick of his prime. He’s made it clear that he expects to compete for a championship — and for that to happen, the rest of the Cavs need to catch up to his timeline. He’s given them a championship window that will only be capitalized on if his supporting cast can rise to the occasion.

Regardless, Mitchell’s excellence and total commitment to the city could make him a franchise legend. He’s already given the two best seasons of his career to the Cavs. A few more would stamp him into Cleveland sports history forever.