The Oklahoma City Thunder reclaimed momentum with an emphatic Game 3 victory on Friday. The defending champions dominated the San Antonio Spurs 123-108, relying on their offensive execution to claim a 2-1 lead in the Western Conference Finals.
However, as is the case with physically demanding seasons, the physical toll of a deep postseason run threatens to derail the rhythm of both contenders.
Thunder Face Rotation Issues vs. Spurs After Ajay Mitchell and Jalen Williams Injuries
Both coaching staffs are scrambling to reshuffle their rotations ahead of Sunday’s crucial Game 4 at the Frost Bank Center.
The injury report is crowded with key contributors. The Thunder are now looking at a relatively depleted backcourt, while the Spurs will try to capitalize on their returning reinforcements.
The Thunder’s Ajay Mitchell was diagnosed with a right calf strain following a highly physical Game 3 exit.
He reportedly suffered the injury during a chaotic sequence in the third quarter after colliding with Stephon Castle to stop a breakaway layup, earning a flagrant foul in the process.
Soon after, Mitchell left the floor with a limp and did not return, finishing the night with 2 points and 5 rebounds in 17 minutes.
Per the latest update, he is officially out for Game 4.
Meanwhile, Mitchell’s teammate Jalen Williams remains a major question mark as well.
Williams is listed as questionable with left hamstring soreness after reaggravating the lingering issue during Game 2 and watching Game 3 from the sidelines.
ALSO READ: ‘Bro Just Saying Anything’ – NBA World Reacts to Austin Reaves’ Take on LeBron James’ Future
Williams has had poor luck with injuries this season. He was limited to just 33 regular-season games due to offseason right wrist surgery and a right hamstring strain.
Meanwhile, San Antonio’s injury report is trending in the right direction as the Spurs face an absolute must-win scenario on their home floor.
De’Aaron Fox and Dylan Harper are both expected to play in Game 4.
Despite the two battling through nagging injuries, neither appeared on the injury report per the latest update. Fox is managing a right high ankle sprain, while Harper is playing through a right adductor issue.
Both players suited up for Game 3 and managed to finish the contest without major setbacks. Fox looked sharp early, helping the Spurs jump out to a 15-0 lead.
Despite Mitchell’s absence, Oklahoma City boasts enough elite depth to absorb early punches and methodically close the gap.
San Antonio has a clear path to tying this series, but the Spurs need to sustain their production over a full 48 minutes to avoid another collapse.
