Indiana Pacers: The 13th pick has a favorable history

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - MARCH 01: Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Utah Jazz drives reacts against the New Orleans Pelicans during a game at the Smoothie King Center on March 01, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images) /

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Donovan Mitchell – Credit: Russell Isabella-USA TODAY Sports /

Donovan Mitchell – 13th overall in 2017

Two years before Herro, the Utah Jazz were gifted their franchise cornerstone with the 13th overall pick. Donovan Mitchell slid into the perfect situation and has emerged as one of the best young players in the NBA today.

Mitchell was an immediate starter for Utah, starting in all but eight games since he joined the NBA. Through four seasons, Mitchell has averaged 23.4 points per game and has never been below 20.5 points per game in one season.

There has been a steady improvement from Mitchell as a shooter and scorer in each of his four seasons so far. Since his rookie season, Mitchell’s three-point percentage has gradually increased from 34.0 to 38.6 while his points have improved each season from 20.5 to 26.4 this past season.

Donovan Mitchell does it all for Utah and has helped lead them to the top seed in the Western Conference. As a solid two-way combo guard, Mitchell is certainly one of the best young players in the NBA.

Age was probably too much of a factor in his draft slide as he was 21 years old when he finished his first season. If a player as valuable as Mitchell is available at 13th overall, the Pacers would have to take him. 20 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists from a rookie would be far too good to pass up.

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