Thunder lose Ajay Mitchell for 10-12 weeks due to turf toe sprain

Oklahoma City guard Ajay Mitchell will be re-evaluated in 10-12 weeks due to a turf toe sprain in his right foot.

In 34 games this season, Mitchell has averaged 6.4 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 1.7 assists in 16.5 minutes.

Mitchell played three seasons at UC Santa Barbara, averaging 20.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 4.0 assists in his final year.

After getting drafted 38th overall by the New York Knicks, the Thunder acquired him in exchange for 40th overall pick Oso Ighodaro and cash considerations.

Hitting NBA Stride

It’s not often rookies are able to make an impact on contending teams, but Mitchell has been finding a way.

Shooting 43.1 percent from three to go along with a solid overall floor game, the 22-year-old has made important contributions stepping into a bigger role due to the absence of Alex Caruso.

His best games came in the latter half of December, scoring 16 points on 6-of-7 shooting to go along with 12 rebounds in 22 minutes against the Washington Wizards on Dec. 23. He also had 17 points on 6-of-11 shooting on Dec. 29 in a win over the Memphis Grizzlies.

When Will Help Arrive?

While the Thunder have been incredibly successful, they will be hoping to have their best rotation in rhythm before the playoffs begin.

Caruso is missing his ninth straight game on Friday due to a left hip strain and there is no definitive return date.

Chet Holmgren traveled with the team on its current four-game East coast road trip and is now ramping up his physical activity with non-contact work.

He was seen without crutches for the first time just around New Year’s day.

It has been two months since Holmgren suffered a right iliac wing (hip) fracture. The Thunder said an update on his progress would be provided around the 8-10 mark.

In nine games before the injury, Holmgren averaged 18.2 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 2.9 blocks.

Oklahoma City carries a West-best 30-6 record into Friday night’s game against the Knicks.