Fair play from the OKC guard amid growing pains in his start against the Trail Blazers

In his first start of the regular season, Ajay Mitchell got the nod in place of Lou Dort for the Oklahoma City Thunder coach Mark Daigneault, before Portland The Trail Blazers spoiled the historic start of the defending champions. The Trail Blazers defeated the Thunder 121-119, handing Oklahoma City its first loss after an 8-0 record. Mitchell finished with 21 points on 7-of-11 shooting, four rebounds and three assists, but it was his four turnovers that stood out the most.

Costly turnovers in the final frame, including Mitchell’s bad pass on a one-point play, eventually led to an eight-point deficit, which the Thunder narrowly avoided but lost by two points. Still, Mitchell doesn’t take these opportunities for granted, gaining invaluable experience it comes with late game execution.

“It’s been great, honestly, learning every single game. I feel like every time I’m out there, whether I’m coming off the bench, starting, being in those late situations — I’m just learning every game,” Mitchell said. “It’s really fun for me. I just have to keep working, getting better and learning.”

Amid All-Star Jaylen Williams, Kenrich Williams and Isaiah Joe, who made his regular-season debut last week with injuries, Mitchell has made the most of his opportunities like no other Thunder player this season. He scored in double figures in all nine Oklahoma City games, averaging 16.7 points on 45.8% shooting, 3.7 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 1.6 steals in 27.1 minutes.

Ajay Mitchell eager to ‘learn’ amid increased Thunder role

Thunder Keeper Ajay Mitchell’s impressive start sparked the Most Improved Player conversations during the first week of the regular season, as those conversations haven’t died down since. Mitchell continues to show growth beyond his impressive defense, which earned him little playing time and zero G League spots during his freshman season.

From third-string point guard to one of Thunder coach Marc Daigneault’s bench options, Mitchell shows no signs of slowing down as he adjusts to life as an everyday player.

“Obviously there’s a lot to learn from today. Me, as a guard, I have to take care of the ball. That’s a big input for me. In those games, it’s a game about the details, getting better at every detail. For me, it’s just watching film and seeing where I can get better.”

The 2024 second-round pick’s increased playing time has Mitchell in position to take on a significantly increased role once the Thunder return to full health. Meanwhile, Ajayi proved he can take advantage of the starting minutes as he put together three 20+ point performances, including his game-high 26 points in a 141-135 double-overtime win against the Pacers.