As Ajay Mitchell nears the end of his initial 10-to-12-week re-evaluation period from toe turf surgery, his physical activity has ramped up. At Monday's shootaround, he was spotted working with staffers in one-on-zero passing drills.
It's the most Mitchell has done around the media. He's the lone long-term injury who could return before the season ends. But with less than two weeks left in the regular season, time is running out. His conversion from a two-way to a standard deal makes it possible for him to return by the playoffs, but it'd be unfair to throw the second-round rookie into the fire after being out for three months.
Still, Oklahoma City Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault has liked what he's seen from Mitchell in his rehab process. It takes a lot of mental fortitude — especially for a rookie — to take that on and not let it sulk you into a dark place. The 22-year-old was a surprise contributor early on as a backup ball-handler.
“On track with his progression. We’re now part of recovery. Like I've said many times, guys don’t go from walking boots to the court," Daigneault said. "He’s right where he’s supposed to be. He’s done a great job. I’ve been super impressed with him and Topic all season with their ability to approach a long-term rehab.”
If Mitchell returns in the near future, that'll be a bonus for OKC. That would mean — knock on wood — everybody sans Nikola Topic will be available and healthy for the playoffs. The Thunder don't necessarily need Mitchell to make a deep playoff run, but he provides them another option if the bench lineups need to be tweaked.
Either way, Mitchell has been quite the discovery for the Thunder. He looks to be a possible long-term answer as a bench guard. He played like a savvy veteran earlier this season who could orchestrate the offense. You can never have enough of those in the NBA.
More of Ajay Mitchell at shootaround pic.twitter.com/WCYLP5MM9h
— Clemente Almanza (@CAlmanza1007) March 31, 2025
This article originally appeared on OKC Thunder Wire: Here's what Mark Daigneault said about Ajay Mitchell as he progresses
