Heat waste no time re-signing crucial free agent to a bargain deal
Even though there was a chance a free-agent deal between the Heat and Mitchell was going to be complicated, the Heat couldn’t afford to let him walk. Getting a deal out of the way before he could hit the open market will allow the Heat to focus on other moves as the start of free agency quickly approaches.
Is this just the start for the Heat?
After the big move for Mitchell, you can’t help but wonder what else could lie ahead for the Heat. With so many uncertainties heading into the remainder of the offseason, the possibilities are truly endless for Miami.
But this move for Mitchell was a necessary one. No matter which path the Heat decides to take moving forward, re-signing Mitchell seemed to be independent of any of them.Even though the trade return for Jimmy Butler left much to be desired in the moment, there’s no question that Davion Mitchell quickly made a name for himself in Miami. It was enough for him to earn a brand-new multi-year contract with the Heat. As opposed to testing restricted free agency, Michell and the Heat agreed to a two-year, $24 million deal.
After the original acquisition, it didn’t take long to realize how great of a fit Mitchell became for Miami. In 30 games with the Heat, Mitchell averaged 10 points and five assists per game on 40 percent shooting from 3-point range. He also quickly became the best backcourt defender on the roster
Mitchell, 26, fits whatever direction the Heat feels is next. He’s the type of player that could help a playoff-contending team right now, and is also young enough where he could assist a team that intends to rebuild or retool on the fly.
However, it does seem like Miami is pivoting toward a youth movement. If that does end up being the case, the continued development of Mitchell could play a huge role in this team’s future. It’s also one reason why this re-signing was almost a necessity. Getting him at $12 million per year is also a huge bargain for the Heat.
This is a deal that makes sense for both the Heat and Mitchell, as the strong start to the offseason continues for Miami.
