Story perspectives

Ajay Mitchell Guides Thunder to 7-0 Start, Signs $9M Deal

5/10/2026

Summary

Story summary

Ajay Mitchell posted 24 points and 10 assists in Game 3, helping the Oklahoma City Thunder beat the Los Angeles Lakers 131-108.
The victory gave the Thunder a 7-0 playoff start after Mitchell replaced injured starter Jalen Williams, having averaged 20.7 points on 53.3% shooting versus Los Angeles.
General manager Sam Presti and coach Mark Daigneault signed Mitchell to a three-year, $9 million deal, praising his aggressive play and rapid postseason growth.

History

Historical Context

In 1995-96 the Chicago Bulls, bolstered by Dennis Rodman and bench star Toni Kukoc, posted a league-record 72-10 regular-season and captured a third straight title under Phil Jackson. Their dominance foreshadowed the franchise’s lasting legacy, while Oklahoma City’s 2025 championship marked the Thunder’s rise as a dominant Western Conference contender, reshaping the NBA landscape.

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Story summary

Ajay Mitchell posted 24 points and 10 assists in Game 3, helping the Oklahoma City Thunder beat the Los Angeles Lakers 131-108.
The victory gave the Thunder a 7-0 playoff start after Mitchell replaced injured starter Jalen Williams, having averaged 20.7 points on 53.3% shooting versus Los Angeles.
General manager Sam Presti and coach Mark Daigneault signed Mitchell to a three-year, $9 million deal, praising his aggressive play and rapid postseason growth.

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