The Oklahoma City Thunder continue to invest in young talent. The team signed Ajay Mitchell to a multiyear contract and Branden Carlson to a two-way deal. These moves reflect the organization’s commitment to player development. Both players have shown promise in their limited NBA minutes, and their new contracts signal the Thunder’s belief in their potential.
Thunder Hand Ajay Mitchell and Branden Carlson New Contracts
Ajay Mitchell’s Rise from Two-Way Player to Multiyear Deal
Mitchell, a 6-foot-4 guard from Belgium, initially signed a two-way contract with the Thunder last July. The team upgraded his deal to a two-year, $6 million contract after his strong performances. This move solidifies his place in Oklahoma City’s future.
Mitchell’s shooting efficiency has impressed. He is one of two rookies this season shooting at least 50% from the field and 40% from three. This shooting success mirrors his junior year college stats at UC Santa Barbara, where he posted 50.4% from the field, 39.3% from three, and 85.8% from the free-throw line.
Beyond scoring, Mitchell has displayed defensive versatility. His 6-foot-6 wingspan and strong frame allow him to guard both backcourt positions. While not the fastest laterally, he compensates with elite awareness and instincts. His defensive rating of 100.0 underscores his impact on that end of the floor.
Despite missing a month with a toe sprain, Mitchell has made a strong impression. He excels at creating for teammates, especially when driving to the rim. His ability to operate in the pick-and-roll aligns with the Thunder’s offensive philosophy under Mark Daigneault.
Originally projected as a late first-round pick on some draft boards, Mitchell slipped to the second round in the 2024 NBA Draft. Oklahoma City acquired his rights from the New York Knicks on draft night. Now, with his new contract, he has the chance to establish himself as a long-term piece in the Thunder’s rotation.
Branden Carlson’s Expanded Role in Oklahoma City
The Thunder also rewarded Carlson with a two-way contract. The 7-foot center has appeared in 15 games since signing with Oklahoma City in November. His best performance came against Cleveland, where he scored a career-high 11 points and grabbed four rebounds.
Carlson’s raw numbers may not stand out—he averages 3.1 points and 1.7 rebounds in 6.3 minutes per game. However, his per-36-minute stats reveal his potential. He projects to average 17.4 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per 36 minutes. His three-point attempt rate ranks in the 98th percentile, proving he is willing to stretch the floor.
Defensively, Carlson has shown strong instincts. He contests shots at a 46.2% rate and owns a 6.5% block rate, ranking in the 97th percentile. These numbers suggest he could become an elite rim protector in extended minutes.
Oklahoma City has struggled with rebounding due to injuries among its big men. Both Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein have missed time. If either player suffers another setback, Carlson could play a larger role.
In five G League games, Carlson is averaging 15.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks. His development in the G League could prepare him for an expanded role in the NBA.
Mitchell and Carlson’s Contracts Reiterate Thunder’s Commitment to Developing Talent
Oklahoma City has a strong track record of identifying and developing under-the-radar talent. Sam Presti’s scouting and player development system have turned late draft picks and undrafted players into key contributors. Mitchell and Carlson could be the latest success stories.
Mitchell’s shooting, defensive versatility, and playmaking fit the Thunder’s long-term plans. Carlson’s ability to space the floor while protecting the rim makes him a valuable depth piece. With these new contracts, both players now have the opportunity to solidify their roles in Oklahoma City’s future.
© Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
