Lu Dort Shines in Thunder Victory, Earning Respect Amidst Early Struggles
Lu Dort has faced his share of scrutiny this season. His shooting from beyond the arc has plummeted to a startling 30%, a stark contrast to the 40% he showcased last year. Against the backdrop of the Oklahoma City Thunder’s impressive 26-3 record, Dort’s struggles have drawn attention. Yet, amidst a franchise that has little to critique about its overall performance, the defensive stalwart has become an easy target for critics. However, the Thunder’s unwavering faith in him speaks volumes about his value to the team.
A Track Record of Resilience
Throughout his six-year NBA career, Dort has established himself as a streaky shooter but one who consistently rises to the occasion in pivotal moments. His journey began in the playoffs during his rookie season, where he delivered a remarkable 30-point performance in Game 7. More recently, he played crucial roles in the Thunder’s playoff success, notably during Game 5 against Denver and in the NBA Finals against Indiana, helping to secure a championship.
On a Monday night against the Memphis Grizzlies, Dort reminded everyone of his capabilities. He scored 13 points, hitting 3-of-6 from downtown, and showcased his relentless defensive tenacity. He was everywhere on the court, disrupting the Grizzlies’ rhythm with three steals and three blocks, demonstrating that he has indeed returned to form.
The Power of Trust
What, then, sparked this resurgence? The answer may be simpler than one might think. According to Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault, it wasn’t a dramatic shift in approach or an intense conversation. “I haven’t talked to him, other than asking how his family is,” Daigneault quipped about their interactions during Dort’s cold stretch. “I am speaking to him, but not about his performance.”
This approach reflects a broader philosophy within the organization: trust in Dort’s abilities. At 26 years old, he has shown time and again that he can bounce back from adversity. “I have such a belief in Lu and his competitiveness,” Daigneault remarked. “I’ve seen him go through so many ups and downs over the last six years and how he’s responded to that. He always puts the work in. He has unbelievable self-belief and maintains a level of high confidence through all circumstances.”
A Steady Presence
Dort’s demeanor also plays a significant role in why his teammates and coaching staff remain confident in him. Kenrich Williams highlighted this aspect of Dort’s character. “Lu is Lu; he is the same person every day. That is why we love him. Never too high, never too low.” Williams noted that even after a rough game—where Dort might go 0-for-5—he will return with the same determination and confidence. “Just having that confidence, he does everything else. All the little things that we need on the team, Lu fills that role.”
As the Thunder look to the future, Monday’s performance against Memphis may serve as a pivotal moment for Dort. Regardless of the outcomes ahead, the organization’s enduring support for their defensive ace is clear. There is no sense of urgency or panic surrounding Dort, and that calm confidence may just be the key to unlocking even greater potential in the games to come.
