Norman Powell has been very impressed with how one Miami Heat star has elevated himself to be the defensive leader of the team.
The Miami Heat got yet another big win in a season full of them, defeating the LA Clippers in impressive fashion to go 14-7
The Clippers were embarrassed by the Heat, with Miami going on a near 30-point run at one point in the game.
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Despite Kawhi Leonard’s optimism about the Clippers’ season, the Heat absolutely dominated on both ends of the court.
Erik Spoelstra has transformed this Miami Heat side, with their effort on the defensive end being a key focus for their team.
Norman Powell applauds Davion Mitchell as Heat’s defensive leader
Norman Powell spoke after the game about the defensive effort Davion Mitchell brings on a nightly basis to the Miami Heat.
Powell praised the intensity of Mitchell and the level of sacrifice it takes to play defense at such a high level, and believes the young man will earn an All-Defensive team nomination.
“It’s huge, man. Just the energy and the effort that he gives on the defensive end, guarding their best player, and taking the challenge.
“Picking him up full court and go fighting through screens, sacrificing his body. He’s the head of the snake… We feed off of him making those plays every single night. He has a chip on his shoulder…
“He’s a student of the game; he’s definitely first-team (All-Defense). If they don’t have him first-team, something’s wrong.”
Davion Mitchell not earning enough attention for his defensive effort
Davion Mitchell has been playing some excellent defense and has taken on the role of being the Miami Heat’s point-of-attack defender.
Giving a young player such a big role on the team is definitely a version of trial by fire, as he is going to be responsible for leading the team.
Mitchell is averaging 1.4 steals per game, showing just how much of a pest he is as an on-ball perimeter defender for the Heat.
He sets the tone for the defense and shows the rest of the team how they have to carry themselves when guarding opposition players.
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