The Oklahoma City Thunder began their season on Thursday against the Denver Nuggets, in a game that looked like a tough battle on paper.

Without Jaylin Williams, Kenrich Williamas or Isaiah Hartenstein, the Thunder lacked any semblance of front-court depth against a Western Conference contender. Many believed this could mean heavy minutes for rookie Dillon Jones, but instead it was another first-year player who saw extended success.

In the first half, Thunder bench boss Mark Daigneault turned to UC Santa Barbra second-round pick Ajay Mitchell, who logged seven minutes of play en route to a rebound and an assist on two crucial defensive possessions – one of which he was in the lineout to force a drive and the other where he used the sideline as his friend to force a loss of the ball from Christian Braun.

Mitchell has been impressive throughout Thunder camp and preseason, which was highlighted by defensive ace Alex Caruso during the Thunder’s final practice before their trip to Denver.

“Ajay’s pace is really good for a first-year player, he’s left-handed so it’s a bit off-putting for defenders at times. “He feels like he’s always in control most of the time…for a lead guard, that’s impressive in his first year,” Caruso said. “I think he’s also doing a good job of learning and learning how to control the game with timing and care of the ball inside reads. It was fun to watch him play.”

Although Mitchell is currently in a two-way pact, the early returns are a good sign that he is the latest addition to the Thunder’s success story.

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