"Mitchell cost the Raptors next to nothing to acquire at the 2024 NBA Draft, and it was even more crazy to see Toronto work their trade magic by offloading Jalen McDaniels' contract and getting the 45th pick, which became Jamal Shead, along with a 2025 second-round pick from Portland. What Sacramento perhaps interpreted as a move to shed salary and save tax ended up being pretty much highway robbery for Toronto."
"Nevertheless, having a veteran - though it feels weird to say since Mitchell only started in 2021, but he came in as an older rookie - on your roster to mentor a young player can be incredibly impactful, even if they don't stay together for the long run. Sometimes that short time spent together and building a relationship can be the spark that helps the young player grow, gain confidence, and develop more smoothly."
Jamal Shead is now the Raptors' main backup guard to Immanuel Quickley. Last season the Raptors also featured Davion Mitchell, creating a two-headed guard duo with a defensive ace. Mitchell cost the Raptors next to nothing at the 2024 NBA Draft, and Toronto acquired the 45th pick by offloading Jalen McDaniels' contract, which became Jamal Shead, plus a 2025 second-round pick from Portland. The Mitchell-Shead pairing during 2024-25 produced mixed results, with nights of strong collaboration and nights where one guard struggled. Mitchell's impending contract made his trade to Miami unsurprising. Short-term veteran mentorship helped Shead grow and gain confidence. After a December 15 win over Miami, Shead praised his short-term mentor.
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