Kings’ Luke Walton commends Davion Mitchell for offensive outburst

Known as a strong defender, Davion Mitchell shined on offense in the Kings’ win over the Trail Blazers.

Sacramento Kings rookie Davion Mitchell entered the NBA draft as a strong defender, but it was his offense on Monday that was on full display in a win over the Portland Trail Blazers.

Mitchell produced a team-high 20 points, four assists, two rebounds and one steal in 31 minutes of work in the 107-93 victory. Perhaps most impressive, Mitchell went 6-of-9 from 3-point range. His six 3-pointers were just as many as Portland hit, who went 6-of-29.

Kings head coach Luke Walton commended Mitchell for the work put in on offense.

We thought we had a pretty good handle drafting him on what he’ll be able to do for us defensively, and the amount of work he has put in understanding the offense and adjusting to the size of the NBA has been great, and it has been quick. He was really good offensively tonight.

The 20-point outburst resulted in Mitchell’s best performance of the preseason.

He punished the Trail Blazers when they went under screens and he was very effective in getting others involved. The playing time has given him the opportunity to better understand the league, which will only help his development.

Mitchell has performed like one of the best rookies, and the Kings will be hoping that production can continue into the regular season. Kings guards De’Aaron Fox and Tyrese Haliburton have both praised Mitchell for his ability to contribute now and he looks to be capable of that.

Of course, the competition level will change once the regular season tips off but Mitchell has had no issue to this point adjusting to the NBA game. He could be in store for a strong rookie campaign with the Kings.

This post originally appeared on Rookie Wire! Follow us on Facebook!

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