OKC Thunder: 3 keys to defeat the NBA best Jazz

Donovan Mitchell should be in the MVP conversation:

Through the early stages of the season, LeBron James seemed destined to collect another Most Valuable Player trophy. Many have felt the King was denied unfairly in previous seasons (you’ll get the same argument from Michael Jordan purists). Playing with such dominance in his 18th season and the recency bias of the Lakers title run he looked poised to collect his fifth MVP.

His main early competition was Joel Embiid who returned this season in better shape and has the 76ers resting atop the Eastern Conference ladder. Then Embiid suffered an injury that put him on the shelf for 10 games. He’s missed a total of 18 games. Not enough to remove him from the conversation, but likely enough to add doubt.

James Harden is another name mentioned but he’s also out now and has the benefit of playing with a former MVP (Kevin Durant) as well as Kyrie Irving.

This brings me to Donovan Mitchell. Given the Jazz boast the best record in the association his name should be getting consideration. His production is worthy with 26.3 points, 4.5 rebounds, 5.3 assists, and a steal. He’s shooting 38.5 percent from the perimeter on 8.5 attempts per game.

Adding credence to the argument is his recent play during games in clutch time. In recent matches, Mitchell is taking over particularly in close games.  The fourth-year star is either scoring or setting up his teammates in those situations punctuating signs of his leadership and growth.

In a similar fashion to what Damian Lillard did as he grew in the league, Mitchell is learning how to affect winning and to make his teammates more successful. Mitchell might not be the definitive MVP leader, but as the top star on the top team, he definitely deserves consideration.

OKC Thunder must be aware of Jazz rebounding and 3-point dominance:

It’s not a surprise the Jazz top specific categories as the team with the best record in the association. With Rudy Gobert patrolling the paint the Jazz rank first in total rebounds and place high in both offensive (third) and defensive boards (second).

Two areas where the Jazz top the category boards are rebounding and perimeter shooting. As for the 3-point shooting the Jazz take and make the most perimeter shots of the 30 teams. On the opposite side of the floor, the Jazz is also great perimeter defenders ranking second for opponent efficiency and allow the fewest 3-point attempts.