Yes I agree it’s quite common behaviour.
They feel a sense of control. They know that they’re going to get some attention from the behaviour. Sometimes throwing something or hitting someone or something is just what our young children feel like doing, and because they don’t know how to inhibit their behaviour like bigger people, they throw and hit.
I agree as well to keep your response neutral.
You could ignore the behaviour and just ask “shall we tidy it up” ? they may need a little help and encouragement with this.
Help your child learn to use words instead of throwing or hitting.
Teach your child to walk away when they feel someone something is bothering them
Teach your child to breathe out the nasties.
Make sure your child gets enough positive attention & praise in general.

I think this is fairly normal. Explain why you don’t throw things and start removing things from them until they stop. Try not to give a big reaction (which I know isn’t always easy)