OKC winning every game by 30 sounds great – but here’s why close games help

Amid a 20-1 start, Oklahoma City Thunder Guard Ajayi Mitchell understands the benefits of playing a tight game, as seen in their previous wins against the Portland Trail Blazers and Phoenix Suns. Thunder All-Star point guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander extended his streak of 20+ points in a four-point win against the Suns (123-119), followed by a 123-115 win against the Blazers — two close games. Oklahoma City recorded its 12th straight victory.

Mitchell discovered the species win he loves the mostbut he understands the lessons that come with close games.

“Personally, I’d like to win every game by about 30 if we can, but there’s a lot to learn in close games,” Mitchell said. “And there’s a way to fight through what’s going on, especially when things don’t go our way. It’s a great opportunity to get better as a team and find a way. So I think those games are very important for us.”

Taking on an increased role as one of the first guys off the bench for coach Marc Daigneault in just his second season, the Thunder’s second-round pick feels a big difference in the approach of his teammates.

“It’s very empowering, because that trust from the coaching staff and my teammates really helps me,” Mitchell added. “I just want to help this team win. So I was really happy that Dub is back. Wiggs is back. Kenrich is back. I’m really excited to have the whole team healthy and find ways to just win every game we can. For me, it’s like, what can I do to help this team win?

“That’s all on my mind. I’m glad we got the guys back, and I’m excited to get everybody back,” Mitchell concluded.

Mitchell’s 17 points on 5-of-9 shooting led the second unit in the Thunder’s close game on Sunday. He also finished with five assists, five rebounds and one steal.

Jaylen Williams points to growing respect for Thunder

While Ajay Mitchell has been a bright spot off the bench this season, the same could be said for Isaiah Joe, who has gone a combined 5-for-11 from deep in the Thunder’s past two outings. Jaylen Williams delighted Joe’s efficient shot after Sunday’s win.

“Honestly, I don’t think that’s even the most underrated part of the whole thing. I think it’s more like coming into the game, you don’t know when you’re going to come in, you don’t have a shot, and your first three are: I’ve got to run, get on my feet and shoot a corner 3 with about four seconds left – and it’s expected to go – is very elite,” Williamski said. “And that’s not a skill that a lot of NBA players have. So for him to be on our team and have that, it’s very special.”

The Thunder will face the Warriors on Tuesday on NBC/Peacock.