Thunder made the best bargain signing of the summer -- and it's not who fans think

The Oklahoma City Thunder had a highly active 2025 NBA offseason focused on securing their core players for the long term. General Manager Sam Presti committed significant resources, spending upwards of $877.21 million on new standard contracts. Key moves included re-signing big man Jaylin Williams to a new three-year, $24 million deal and locking down the star trio of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren to maximum, multi-year extensions, aiming to build a championship-contending dynasty.

Despite these large expenditures, the Thunder also secured what is argued to be one of the best bargain signings of the summer: retaining guard Ajay Mitchell on a new three-year, $8.7 million contract. While arguments exist for Holmgren and Jalen Williams being value signings, the article contends Mitchell's deal is superior. Mitchell, initially on a two-way contract, quickly earned a rotation spot, averaging 16.9 minutes per night from November onwards and had his deal converted to a standard contract by early February.

Mitchell proved himself a reliable "3&D" (three-point shooting and defense) contributor during his rookie season. He shot 40.4% on catch-and-shoot threes, 37.0% on above-the-break threes, ranked fifth overall in three-point percentage (38.3%) among qualifying rookies, and led all rookies who played 30+ games with a defensive rating of 100.0. Following an impressive Summer League showing where he displayed improved ball-handling and distribution, Mitchell appears poised to expand his role in his second season.

Combining Mitchell's proven production, his potential for growth, and the fact his contract will cost the Thunder less than 2.0% of the salary cap through the 2027-28 season, the article concludes his re-signing represents one of the best bargains of the offseason.