After losing his father in December, this season took on more meaning for Oklahoma City's Ajay Mitchell: "I don't want to let him down."

Ajay Mitchell adds to breakout year in Oklahoma City Thunder's Game 3 win over Los Angeles Lakers.

The reigning MVP was limited to 23 points in 33 minutes, along with four rebounds and nine assists. However, it was young guard Ajay Mitchell who stole the spotlight for Oklahoma City, finishing as the game's leading scorer with 24 points, four rebounds, 10 assists, and three steals.

Ajay Mitchell, the OKC Thunder's lowest-paid player, outshined MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in a playoff rout of the Lakers.

Joel Lorenzi says Mitchell’s rise has not surprised Oklahoma City, which has seen his poise and offensive feel since training camp.

The next impressive player to rise from the Thunder's bottomless depth and onto the national stage is Ajay Mitchell, who has seized the spotlight while replacing injured teammate Jalen Williams during these playoffs.

Thunder coach Mark Daigneault wants to see Ajay Mitchell improve in one area after the guard's strong Game 3 display against the Lakers.

Law Murray : The Thunder are 7-0 against the Lakers this season, and 3-0 in this series Final score of Game 3: Thunder 131, Los Angeles 108 Ajay Mitchell led all scorers AND bankers with 24 points and 10 dimes. He's starting because Jalen Williams is out btw. FG%: OKC 56.4%, LAL 46.9%