Thunder’s Ajay Mitchell Powers 3-0 Lead as Lakers Key on Gilgeous-Alexander
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LOS ANGELES — With the Lakers blanketing reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, second-year guard Ajay Mitchell delivered a breakout performance Saturday night, posting 24 points, 10 assists and no turnovers to push the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 128-102 win and a 3-0 advantage in the Western Conference semifinals.
Inserted into the starting lineup because Jalen Williams is sidelined by a Grade 1 hamstring strain, Mitchell is averaging 20.7 points, 6.7 assists and just 1.0 turnover through the first three games while shooting 53.3% from the floor. The No. 38 pick in the 2024 draft has also drawn primary defensive duties on Austin Reaves, who continues to struggle from the field.
“I know what I can do,” Mitchell said. “I just want to compete, help this team win and play freely.”
SGA Held in Check
Los Angeles has focused its defense on Gilgeous-Alexander, using former Defensive Player of the Year Marcus Smart to deny entries and sending double-teams once he gains possession. The strategy limited the All-NBA guard to 23 points on 7-of-20 shooting in Game 3. “Obviously I haven’t been my best, but I’ve helped the team win and that’s most important,” Gilgeous-Alexander noted.
Thunder’s Supporting Cast Steps Up
Cason Wallace followed a career-best 12-point outing in Game 2 with 11 first-quarter points Saturday, finishing with 16 after hitting 4-for-4 overall and 3-for-3 from deep in the opening period. Isaiah Joe, whose minutes had dwindled earlier in the series, added 12 points on 4-of-6 three-point shooting.
Mitchell’s Contract Value
Mitchell is positioned to become one of the NBA’s top bargains. He earned $3 million this season, will make $2.85 million next year and has a team option for the same amount in 2027/28. He will be extension-eligible by then, and Oklahoma City is expected to consider a long-term deal commensurate with his production.
Potential Lottery Boost
Already touting one of the league’s deepest rosters, the Thunder could gain more talent at the draft lottery Sunday. They own the Clippers’ selection at No. 12, which carries a 1.5% chance of landing the top pick and a 7.1% chance of jumping into the top four.
Game 4 is scheduled for Monday night at Crypto.com Arena, where Oklahoma City can complete the sweep and book a second straight trip to the conference finals.
Source: Hoops Rumors
