Kings’ Mike Brown Elects Mitchell in Race for Backup PG Role
For the Sacramento Kings, speed and toughness are prioritized traits that head coach Mike Brown looks for in his players. Someone who certainly brings these traits to the table is star PG De'Aaron Fox, a player that averages both the most points and steals for the Kings.
Fox is one of the NBA's rarest guards, meaning it can be hard to replace what he does on the court. After missing multiple games due to injury, his missed presence was felt by both the team and the Sacramento loyal. Looking at the bench unit, two names stick out as backup point guards: Davion Mitchell and Keon Ellis.
While Keon Ellis may be 4-0 as a starter this season, coach feels that Mitchell's value comes from his experience in the league. Mike Brown explained why he feels that Mitchell has the edge over Ellis right now (via @BrendenNunesNBA | X):
Davion has played well over a stretch, and Keon did too. The bottom line is, because Davion has a little more experience, he's gonna have the advantage if they're both playing well, and they are both playing well. When Keon has gotten a real opportunity, the result speaks for itself. He's 4-0 as a starter, and he does little things we need people to do.
Mitchell has played in over 200 games for Sacramento at this point in his career, compared to Ellis' 51. Being more used to Mike Brown's system has given the former Baylor University guard the advantage, despite some of the statistics fans have pointed out.
Looking at these numbers objectively, Ellis' do appear better, but they don't tell the whole story. Ellis' ability comes as a defender, where his length allows him to guard multiple positions on the floor. Against the Minnesota Timberwolves, the guard put up four steals in a breakout performance for a guy who doesn't get many opportunities.
On the other hand, the numbers don't look pretty when Mitchell is included in the starting rotation. He is 0-4 as a starter this season, but that stat isn't telling the full story either. In his last five games, Mitchell is shooting an astounding 72% from the field, showing his value in his reliability.
The decision is certainly a tough one for Mike Brown, but staying with experience is a strategy that could pay off come playoff time.
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