The NBA’s top team keeps adding new dimensions, and Ajay Mitchell’s emergence has given the Thunder another potent option, writes Joe Mussatto of The Oklahoman.
With Jalen Williams recovering from wrist surgery, Mitchell has stepped into a larger role and quickly become a major contributor.
The second-year guard is averaging 16.9 points, 3.8 rebounds and 3.8 assists through 13 games, and his 1.8 steals per night rank sixth in the league.
He’s taken over Williams’ job of running the offense when Shai Gilgeous-Alexander sits and fits well alongside the MVP in closing stretches.
“I mean, he was breaking out last year before he got hurt,” Isaiah Hartenstein said. “We see it on a day-to-day basis, and (coach Mark Daigneault) has a system that if you go out there and show what you can do, he’ll let you ride.”
General manager Sam Presti found Mitchell with the 38th pick in the 2024 draft out of Santa Barbara.
After starting on a two-way deal, he was converted to a standard contract in February. When Williams returns, Mitchell figures to be a strong Sixth Man of the Year and Most Improved Player contender.
“You want to take advantage of it,” Mitchell said, “but I always look at it as, ‘Whatever the team needs me to do, I’m gonna do it.’ With injuries, I have to step up.”
Northwest Notes: Mitchell, Ball, Trail Blazers, Adelman https://t.co/V9OPuFHVP3 pic.twitter.com/9shdLNyDcP
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) November 16, 2025
