With their postseason ticket already punched and home-court advantage locked in throughout, it appears the OKC Thunder will be resting their top-billed talents during their final two games of the regular season.
At least, that's what the latest injury report seems to suggest, as all five of their starters are listed as "out" heading into Friday night's bout against the Utah Jazz.
However, the most notable takeaway from this update is not necessarily the number of players listed but, rather, the ones who have been omitted, as first-year guard Ajay Mitchell has been taken off the report for the first time since January 3.
Ajay Mitchell on track to return to OKC Thunder lineup vs Utah Jazz
Sidelined for the last 46 games due to turf toe and a subsequent surgery, prior to the injury, Mitchell had established himself as a regular commodity within coach Mark Daigneault's rotation and as one of the best players from his rookie class.
Through 34 games played, the 22-year-old boasts averages of 6.4 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 1.7 assists while shooting 50.6 percent from the floor and 43.1 percent from deep.
Among his first-year peers, Mitchell ranks first in three-point percentage and defensive rating (100.0) while placing second in net rating (9.1) out of those who have played in 30 or more games in 2024-25
On the Thunder, these averages rank first, third, and 12 with the same qualifiers.
The rookie's two-way capabilities proved to be so impactful and impressive, in fact, that the ball club opted to lock down the second-round selection on a longer-term pact, signing him to a two-year, $6 million deal on February 6.
While they may already be one of the most well-rounded teams that sport arguably the deepest rotation the league currently has to offer, the return of Ajay Mitchell should still prove to be a major bonus for OKC on both ends of the floor.
From his ball-handling and shot-creation abilities to his on-ball perimeter defense, the youngster's services will be a tremendous asset to have waiting in the reserves while the Thunder embark on what they hope to be their first title run during their Sooner State era.
With two games left and the likes of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren all likely to be donning street clothes until the playoffs begin, Ajay Mitchell will presumably have ample opportunities to shake off the rust and find his on-court rhythm.
His return to action comes right in the nick of time!