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The dismantling of Utah widens LA’s title window

Hans Themistode|
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 12: Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Utah Jazz passes as Kawhi Leonard #2 of the LA Clippers defends during the second half of a game at Staples Center on June 12, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. 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 Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 12: Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Utah Jazz passes as Kawhi Leonard #2 of the LA Clippers defends during the second half of a game at Staples Center on June 12, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. 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 Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)

LA fans felt a bit apprehensive whenever Donovan Mitchell took the court against their beloved Clippers team.

The high-flying guard, despite having two of the best defenders in the league draped all over him, effortlessly drove to the lane and stopped on a dime, before nailing a smooth mid-range jumper. When either Kawhi Leonard or Paul George believed that it was in their best interest to play Donovan up close, he easily drove past them before finishing at the basket with a variety of moves including up and unders, high rising floaters, and mouth-watering slams that made even the staunchest of Clipper supporters offer a tip of the cap.

In 14 career games, LA has found no answer for Mitchell as he’s averaged 26.4 points, 5.4 assists, and 3.7 rebounds. His penchant for making explosive plays against the Clippers only continued in 2021. On the year, Donovan appeared motivated to push his Utah Jazz to the next level. With the two franchises facing off during the 2021 postseason, Mitchell was unstoppable, averaging 34.8 points in six games.

While both Paul George and Kawhi Leonard would ultimately show Mitchell the door, the multiple-time All-Star has been a perpetual handful. His insatiable thirst for lighting up the scoreboards against the Clippers and providing them with an undeniable roadblock, however, could be coming to an end.

Donovan Mitchell in Miami?

Recently, following an early playoff exit this year against the Dallas Mavericks, Mitchell has watched in disbelief as his Utah squad has begun crumbling before his very eyes. First, Quin Snyder vagariously re-signed as Utah’s head coach. From there, rumors have swirled that the Chicago Bulls, and a long list of other teams, are waiting to pounce on Rudy Gobert, Utah’s current big man and former three-time Defensive Player of the Year.

Now, with Mitchell and Miami Heats Jimmy Butler being recently spotted together attending the party of Chris Brickley, their mutual trainer, speculation of the two teaming up has intensified. While news of Mitchell possibly flirting with Miami might be heartbreaking to the Utah Jazz, its music to the ears of Clipper faithful.

Following an injury-hit 2021-22 NBA season, LA has emerged as one of the more prohibitive favorites to win the West next season. Mitchell, a proverbial thorn in LA’s side, and his possible Miami move, will only add to the proliferation of title contenders in the Eastern Conference, something LA isn’t concerned with.

The now teetering franchise in Utah, could be on the brink of becoming innocuous in LA’s title plans. As the NBA’s offseason inches closer, Clipper Nation will keep a close eye on Utah and their immediate moves.

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