Ajay Mitchell, the 2024 No. 38 overall selection, has exceeded all expectations that could have been placed on him.
In the absence of Jalen Williams, Isaiah Joe, and others to start the season, Mitchell has become a star for the team and a key reason for their 7-0 start. He is averaging over 17 points per game off the bench, putting him as a top candidate for the Sixth Man of the Year award.
Mitchell’s ability to be a primary ball handler, create shots, and play in the paint has added a new layer to OKC’s already championship-favorite team.
Primary and Secondary Ball Handler
Even when J-Dub returns to the lineup, one of OKC’s most significant concerns heading into the season was who would be a primary and secondary ball handler off the bench. Since then, Mitchell has shown he is more than capable of this duty and has excelled at it off the bench.
When Shai Gilgeous-Alexander sits, Mitchell takes over the offense — running pick-and-rolls, playing iso, and having great patience at all times. When he and SGA share the floor, he is still not afraid to play his own game while also accepting his role as the secondary ball handler.
His ball-handling ability has been pivotal to OKC’s success, especially when SGA is off the court.
Ajay Mitchell’s Shot Creation
Mitchell’s stellar scoring has been can’t-miss this season. He can create a shot for himself anywhere on the court, whether it’s a pull-up three, a step-back jumper, or a plethora of different paint shots. His excellent patience always gives him a high-quality shot.
Mitchell’s scoring can get even better, as he has found himself in a slight mid-range slump compared to his efficiency last season. He shot 45% from mid-range last season, putting him in the 71st percentile of mid-range accuracy. This season, he is only at 38% from the area.
Mitchell’s well-balanced shot diet has given OKC another multi-dimensional scorer.
Paint Presence and Aggression
Despite being 6-foot-3, Mitchell has been a ferocious presence in the paint. He is 17th in total field goal attempts inside ten feet (52), and is tied for 16th in makes (31). He is also shooting 72% at the rim (68th percentile). His efficiency and volume at the paint have drawn constant defensive attention, leading to many open looks on the perimeter.
Mitchell’s well-rounded offensive game has been one of the Thunder’s most promising outcomes of this regular season start, as well as putting him near the top of contention for the Sixth Man of the Year award.
Leave a comment