Isaiah Hartenstein credits the “luxury” behind Ajay Mitchell’s immediate influence

In the middle Oklahoma City ThunderOn the injury list of his roster, which includes All-Star Jaylen Williams and backup Isaiah Joe, no one has stepped up more than second-year guard Ajay Mitchell, a fact that hasn’t gone unnoticed by the veteran Isaiah Hartenstein. Williams and Joe have yet to make their regular season debuts. Before Tuesday’s game against the Sacramento Kings, Added Chet Holmgren to the injured list. Through it all, Mitchell remained consistent.

Through four games, the 2024 second-round pick is averaging 18.3 points, 4.8 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 1.0 steals. Ajay Mitchell emerged as an option off the bench, which Hartenstein did addressed after Monday’s 101-94 win against the Dallas Mavericks.

“I think he’s just very mature. I think that’s what I’ve seen from day one. I think that’s the luxury you get when you pick a guy that’s a little bit older,” Hartenstein said. “He’s got confidence. He doesn’t shy away from the game. He approaches the game the right way, and I think that’s why you see how comfortable he is right now.”

Mitchell scored 17 points on 7-for-14 from the floor. He also finished with seven rebounds, one assist and one steal in 27 minutes off the bench.

Isaiah Hartenstein on Chet Holmgren’s development for the Thunder

Thunder center Isaiah Hartenstein sees growth for Chet Holmgren in 2025-26. From their championship run in last year’s playoffs to offseason workouts that included workouts with NBA shooting coach Drew Hanlen, Hartenstein isn’t surprised by Holmgren’s impressive start to the regular season.

Hartenstein talked about Holmgren’s accomplishment after Monday’s win against the Mavericks.

“His confidence, but also just playing through contact. I think that’s where he’s been a lot better,” Hartenstein said. “I’ve been with him all summer, I’ve seen the work he’s put in with Drew Henlen, and you’re just seeing it now. You see this confidence. You see what he’s done for our team, and he’s also healthy. I think those two big keys — his confidence and being healthy — he’s one of the greatest in the league.”

Holmgren is averaging 23.0 points on 56.9% shooting, including 41.7% from deep, 10.3 rebounds, 1.3 steals and 1.3 blocks. He is on pace for an outstanding campaign. Perhaps his breakout year, similar to All-Star Jalen Williams, Holmgren’s 2022 draft, 2024-25.