Lu Dort has had a very difficult time playing the past ten games. Although Oklahoma City is still winning, Dort’s downturn has created problems. Over that period, he’s only shooting 26.9% from 3-point range and 32.9% from the field. Because of his failure to spread the floor, teams have been able to heavily exploit Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
It’s simple to argue that a Dort trade makes sense for the Thunder based on the previous ten games, as well as the post-Christmas run. However, in practice, it can wind up causing more harm than benefit. He is a vital component of this team’s dynamic and way of thinking.
Dort is still enjoying his best productive season to date in a blender, but at a far reduced output. He’s become accustomed to playing the kind of game the Thunder have requested. With career-high percentages of 43.8% from the field and 39% from 3-point range, he is averaging 10.7 points.
Even now, he’s a fantastic defender who, on some nights, relieves SGA of the burden. His dein fense has held up despite his offensive woes. He completely shut down CJ McCollum two weeks prior New Orleans, limiting him to just 4 of 15 shots. Jamal Murray, the team’s primary option, only managed 16 points in 38 minutes during last week’s decisive victory over the Nuggets.
The squad comes together behind him because of his infectious fire and enthusiasm. The younger players on this team look up to him as one of their real leaders. With Dort, you always know what to expect because he doesn’t let failures lower his self-esteem.
In an unbelievable comeback win against the Raptors on Sunday, he played a key part. He turned an incredibly slow start into one of his best games of the season because he never lost confidence. Dort finished the game with 22 points on 8-of-19 shooting and 5-of-12 from 3-point range, adding seven rebounds, four assists and a steal. He played 40 minutes. What Dort brings to the team goes beyond the court and extends into the locker room. He’s an invaluable piece to this Thunder team, and far too important to trade.
