Lu Dort Recognized as Top Tier Defender in NBA Player Survey

Lu Dort is picking up quite the reputation as a lockdown defender amongst his NBA peers. Oklahoma City’s defensive stopper is tasked with the best players in the league night in and night out — and continues to gain respect.

Earlier this season, Portland Trailblazers guard Damian Lillard called Dort the best defender in the NBA. Tuesday, when The Athletic released its anonymous survey results, Dort once again scored high in the eyes of follow athletes. He brings fire and intensity to the floor every single night, and finds a way to put in consistent effort on the defensive side of the floor no matter what.

Via an @TheAthletic poll, NBA players voted on the best defender in the NBA

Takeaways? pic.twitter.com/0AA9nEpKEb
— NBA University (@NBA_University) April 18, 2023

The survey poll includes all of the NBA’s elite defenders, like Jaren Jackson Jr. and Marcus Smart, winners of the last two Defensive Player of the Year awards. Dort’s name deserves to be up there with the best, and the players recognize his greatness any chance they get.

Out of the 98 players polled, Dort came in second behind only Jrue Holiday in the official voting results. He ranked ahead of Brook Lopez and Marcus Smart, both directly behind him at No. 3 and No. 4.

Dort’s main criticism over the course of the season surrounded his offensive game. He averaged 13.7 points per game while his percentages dropped below 40% in both major categories, checking in at 38.8% from the floor and 33% from 3-point range.

During his exit interview, Dort noted consistency and shot selection are two things he's looking to get better at this offseason. If he can improve his catch-and-shoot ability from long range, Oklahoma City's offense will skyrocket. Playing alongside Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Josh Giddey, Dort won't need to create his own looks or start the Thunder's offense.

His reputation as a top-tier defender in the NBA is constantly gaining traction.

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