Key Highlights
- Ajay Mitchell is the perfect example, as he went from a second-round pick in 2024 to becoming the team's sixth man in only his second season in the league. Mitchell receives deserved praise from his head coachIn his rookie season, Mitchell was impressive in his 16.6 minutes per game.
- That led to him posting decent statistics of 6.5 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game.
- Considering he was a second-round pick, that was already a great return. Mitchell has continued to work hard behind the scenes, as he has taken advantage of the opportunities.
- Now, he is averaging over 26 minutes a night, which has led to him more than doubling his statistics, with 14.1 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 3.7 assists a night. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementMORE:Chet Holmgren campaigns for teammate to join the Three-Point Shootout at All-Star WeekendAs the Thunder's head coach, Mark Daigneault knows when his players have earned their shot.
- Mitchell is the one who has broken into the regular rotation lately, and Daigneault has no regrets about giving him the chance. Mitchell is a player he values, as evidenced by his effusive praise in the Thunder's game against the Milwaukee Bucks."I think one of the things that makes him a uniquely good fit for this team is that he can create and can carry a bit of a load offensively," Daigneault said after beating the Bucks. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisement"He can also adapt and play well off of other players.