The Oklahoma City Thunder are making waves in the NBA playoffs, and it's not just about their star player, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA). While SGA has been a force to be reckoned with, the real story lies in the emergence of Ajay Mitchell, a second-year guard who is proving to be a game-changer. Mitchell's performance in the first three games of the series against the Lakers has been nothing short of remarkable, and it's time we take a closer look at why.
The Unlikely Hero
Ajay Mitchell, drafted as the 38th pick in the 2024 draft, has quietly become a key player for the Thunder. What's even more impressive is that he's doing it while being the lowest-paid player on the roster, at a mere $3MM. With Jalen Williams sidelined due to a hamstring strain, Mitchell has stepped up and taken his game to the next level. His confidence and ability to compete have been instrumental in the Thunder's 3-0 series lead.
A Different Ballgame
Mitchell's performance is all the more remarkable considering the high-stakes nature of the playoffs. As Tim MacMahon of ESPN points out, the Lakers have been focusing on controlling SGA, but the Thunder are finding other ways to win. Mitchell's 24 points and 10 assists in Game 3, with no turnovers, showcase his ability to step up in crucial moments. His performance has been so good that he's averaging 20.7 points, 6.7 assists, and just 1.0 turnovers in the series, while shooting an impressive 53.3% from the field.
The Defense
One of Mitchell's most notable contributions has been his defense on Austin Reaves, who has struggled to find his shooting touch in the series. Mitchell's ability to guard Reaves has been a key factor in the Thunder's success, and it's a testament to his versatility and all-around game.
The Bargain
Joe Mussatto of The Oklahoman notes that Mitchell could become one of the league's biggest bargains over the next couple of years. With a team option for $2.85MM next season and a potential long-term contract, the Thunder may be wise to reward Mitchell for his outstanding performance. His production and potential make him a player to watch in the coming years.
The Thunder's Depth
The Thunder already have one of the deepest rosters in the league, and with some lottery luck, they could get even better. Owning the Clippers' selection at No. 12, they have a 1.5% chance to land the top overall pick and a 7.1% chance to finish in the top four. This could mean adding another talented player to an already impressive roster.
The Takeaway
In my opinion, the Thunder's success in the playoffs is a testament to their depth and the ability of players like Mitchell to step up when it matters most. While SGA has been a star, it's the unsung heroes like Mitchell who are making the real difference. As the series continues, we can expect to see more from Mitchell, and the NBA world will be watching closely to see if he can continue his impressive run.
