The move to re-sign Davion Mitchell to a team-friendly deal to begin the offseason was a great move that has been long-forgotten by some across the league. With that move alone, the argument could be made that the Heat crushed the offseason.
That's the sentiment that was echoed by NBA writer Rob Mahoney, in which he said the re-signing of Mitchell was one of the "six tiny deals that might tilt the 2025 NBA season."
At the start of the summer, the Heat inked Mitchell to a two-year, $24 million contract. With the way he was playing down the stretch for the Heat, that deal has the potential to look like a huge steal. Especially after the Tyler Herro injury, Mitchell is going to have a great opportunity to start for the Heat on opening night, and that could just be the tip of the iceberg for him.
He'll be asked to play a greater role this year, and after the Heat failed to land a primary playmaker this summer, Mitchell will have a chance to cement his status as the team's full-time point guard this season.
Davion Mitchell's rise with the Heat
As somewhat of an afterthought inclusion in the Jimmy Butler blockbuster deal, Mitchell emerged as a true difference-maker for the Heat. During his 30 games played with the Heat, he averaged 10 points and five assists on 50 percent shooting from the field and 45 percent shooting from 3-point range.
In the team's quick (and unfortunate) four-game sweep at the hands of the Cleveland Cavaliers, the argument can be made that Mitchell was one of the lone bright spots for the Heat. In those four games, Mitchell averaged 15 points and six assists on 50 percent shooting from 3-point range.
Even though I'm not sure that level of production should be expected for Mitchell on a consistent basis this year, it does go to show just how talented a player he is. And the type of potential he carries heading into his first full season with the Heat.
Overall, the Heat had a pretty solid offseason. And many will point to the acquisition of Norman Powell as the biggest reason why. However, I'd argue the move for Mitchell was almost as important, if not more. And he'll have a good chance to prove himself this season for the Heat.
Mitchell is in position to truly have a breakout year for Miami.