MORE THAN A SPARK: AJAY MITCHELL ANSWERS THE CALL AGAIN Deep Playoff runs and deep rotations often go hand in hand, and much of OKC’s 8-0 start has been defined by its depth. From Chet Holmgren’s Game 1 takeover to beat the Lakers to Jared McCain’s hot hand, the Thunder have gotten contributions from every corner of the roster. But one name keeps surfacing: Ajay Mitchell. The Opportunity: With Jalen Williams sidelined to start the season, Mitchell got his shot in OKC’s primary rotation and took advantage, earning 16 starts and more than doubling his ppg from his rookie year (6.5 → 13.6). The Elevation: The Year 2 guard has taken another leap in the Playoffs, averaging 18.8 points, 5 dimes and 1.4 steals while helping fill the void left by Williams (2 GP, hamstring). The Shine: Against Los Angeles, Mitchell’s breakout kept building, scoring 20 in Game 2, a Playoff career-high 24 in Game 3, then topping it with 28 last night to send OKC back to the West Finals. “It’s been amazing,” said SGA of Mitchell’s play. “You could say he’s been the best player this series. With Dub being out, we rely on him so much on the ball. He’s just answered the call.” Now, the 23-year-old lefty – who has played through tragedy this season – has gone from spark plug to series-shaper, ranking 2nd on OKC in total points and assists this postseason, behind only SGA. Like Shai, Mitchell has embodied the Thunder’s two-way identity. He helped keep Austin Reaves in check while ranking 3rd on the team in steals this postseason, including four last night. “Taking pride in [defense],” said Mitchell on the key to his breakout. “That’s been my goal the whole year, and I think that’s most important for our team.” Now, that team has another young difference-maker, adding yet another layer to the depth fueling their title defense. “Everything about Ajay,” said SGA. “His mental, his skillset, his work ethic, it’s all coming together before the world’s eyes.”