Despite Inconsistencies, Lu Dort is Too Important to Trade
Over the last 10 games, Lu Dort has struggled mightily. Oklahoma City is still rolling, but Dort's slump has caused issues. He's shooting just 26.9% from 3-point range and 32.9% from the floor over that stretch, and his inability to space the floor has allowed teams to key in on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in a big way.
It's easy to look at the last 10 games, and even the post-Christmas stretch, and suggest a Dort trade makes sense for the Thunder. In reality, though, it could end up doing more harm than good. He's an integral part of this team, its chemistry and its mentality.
In a blender, Dort is still having his most efficient season yet on a much lower volume. He's adjusted to the type of game that the Thunder asked him to. He's averaging 10.7 points on 43.8% from the floor and 39% from 3-point range, both career-highs.
He's still a terrific defender and takes the weight off of SGA in that department on certain nights. Through the offensive struggles, his defense has remained. Two weeks ago in New Orleans, he held CJ McCollum to just 4-of-15 shooting, completely taking him out of the game. Last week, in a big win over the Nuggets, Jamal Murray had just 16 points in 38 minutes as the team's first option.
His fire and energy is contagious, and the team rallies around him. He is one of the true leaders of this team, and the younger players follow his lead. You know what you're going to get every single night with Dort, as he doesn't allow misses to affect his confidence.
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.
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