Can Mitchell & Gobert Take Charge?
Although it’s very important that Conley starts to improve offensively, it will be up to Mitchell and Gobert to pick up where they left off. They’ve led this team to fourth in the West thanks to their impressive nightly performances, but if this team wants any shot at playoff brilliance, it’s up to these two.
Mitchell is enjoying a solid campaign across the board where he’s posted career-highs in points, field goal percentage, and assists. He’s become one of the most exciting young guards in the game, taking the Jazz to the playoffs the last three seasons. It’s no secret that Mitchell is a top-notch athlete who can impact the game in a number of ways, but this is going to be a whole different feel when the NBA does return.
All the players are currently stuck in a bubble in Orlando where they have limited access to outside life. They get daily meals made for them and are stuck in hotels. Not being able to be in the comfort of your own home could play a part in the remainder of this season, but despite all the circumstances, Mitchell will need to find his touch instantly as the leader of this Jazz team.
Gobert has been a monster in the paint for Utah, averaging 15.1 points and a career-high 13.7 rebounds. He made his first All-Star team this year before the league was postponed as well. The 7-footer is one of the finest bigs in the game, forming a prolific duo with Mitchell.
They’re always very connected with one another on the court, whether Mitchell is throwing Gobert a lob or the Frenchman is dishing Mitchell a pass as he cuts towards the hoop. Although their schedule has some difficult matchups, if this duo can bring their best, Utah has the chance to win numerous games before the postseason.
Their relationship hit a rocky patch back in March when Gobert was the first NBA player to have COVID-19. He was apparently joking around in the locker room while he had the disease, which angered many teammates, specifically Mitchell. All drama aside, they must fix their relationship and get down to business.
