Thunder End of the Year Report Card: Lu Dort

Lu Dort has been with the Thunder for two postseasons now, including this seasons’ play-in experience. He was with the team for his rookie season, where he gained valuable experience guarding James Harden for seven games.

This season, Dort was able to put that experience to use many times, helping the Thunder gain more confidence in the clutch as he shut down opposing stars.
Overall, Dort had an up and down season which was likely his last season having as much shot volume as he did.

Overall Grade: B-

To consider this season bad for Lu Dort would be false, as he provided plenty of value continually this season. Dort can provide his value on both sides of the ball, too, though his best production comes on the defensive side of the ball.

Though Dort’s entire season is being graded, it’s hard to ignore the strong finish Dort had this season. He put together two solid play-in games that helped extend the Thunder’s season.

On top of that, Dort gave fans a glimpse as to what he can provide the Thunder when he’s inevitably the team’s fourth or fifth option on offense.

Offensively

Though having played 23 more games this season than last, he had a much more efficient season last season than this one, and he scored less points per game this season. His field goal percentage fell a percent and a half, and he shot 2.4 less shots per game.

As mentioned Dort showed what kind of on-court fit he can have going forward when the Thunder onboard more talent and Chet Holmgren returns. He’s got a solid corner 3-point shot, and he’s got timely cuts that the guards will be able to find him on consistently. So, it was a down year, but there’s positives to take away from Dort’s season.

Defensively

Defense is Dort’s bread and butter and that’s recognized across the league. Between coaches and players, Dort is getting his respect on that end.

Dort’s defensive energy is relentless and he’s going to give his all to take down his matchup. Not only do games get swung by the impact Dort has on the opposing team’s star. This extends to the clutch, too, and ultimately makes the Thunder a better clutch team. Multiple times this season, Dort put the opposing team’s star player in clamps on the final possession to essentially seal the game.

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