Right now, the controller auto-targeting of mobs is too directionally sensitive. If you’re not facing the mob EXACTLY, it won’t target the mob and your skill will just go flying in a random direction. Can that be tweaked? If you’re anywhere near a mob (especially one who’s attacking you) and there’s nothing else nearby to target, that mob should be prioritized even if you’re not facing it exactly.
(Hate to mention “that other game”, but the controller targeting in PoE is more polished in this regard.)