4 Biggest playoff obstacles Knicks need to prepare for against Cavaliers

3: Donovan Mitchell playoff mode

Donovan Mitchell finished the regular season averaging a career-high 28.3 points in 68 games. He was named an All-Star starter in his first season in Cleveland and is likely headed toward an All-NBA honor.

However, Donovan Mitchell in the playoffs is next-level. In the 39 playoff games that he played in Utah, he averaged 28.3 points (ironically his regular season average) and shot 43.1% from the field and 36.9% from three. He didn’t leave that version of himself behind after he was traded. In fact, the Mitchell that’s going to take the court against the Knicks could wind up having one of his best playoff series. He’s already said that he’s looking forward to playing against his hometown team.

"“It’s full circle. Wouldn’t want it any other way,” the four-time All-Star, who averaged a career-best 28.3 points this season, said recently. “What kid wouldn’t want to grow up and play against his hometown team in the playoffs?”"

One of the Knicks’ hardest tasks will be finding a way to try to contain Mitchell, who’s a three-level scorer. He’s improved as a three-point shooter, too. Last season in Utah, he shot 35.5% on nearly 9.8 attempts per game. This season, he shot 38.6% on nearly 9.3 attempts per game.

Luckily, New York has Quentin Grimes, Josh Hart, Immanuel Quickley, and even Deuce McBride who are all capable of guarding Mitchell. The Knicks’ defense will certainly be thrown for a loop, though. Playoff Donovan Mitchell is different.