OKC Thunder two-way player Luguentz Dort making case for G-League Rookie of the Year

Despite the OKC Thunder affiliate, the OKC Blue, being on a four-game losing streak the play of Luguentz Dort is strong enough for him to be in consideration for Rookie of the Year.

The OKC Thunder may have unearthed a gem when they signed Luguentz Dort to a two-way contract. The Canadian product out of Arizona State has taken the G-League by storm and is not looking back.

Since the first game of the season where Dort exploded for 35 points, he has been the heartbeat of the team. In the eight games he has played, Dort is averaging 21.9 points, 6.5 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.2 steals per game.

Dort is shooting the ball well during this period hitting 48.7 percent from the floor. However, it is his improvements from the perimeter where Dort is impressing. Although 34.0 percent may seem low it’s a massive improvement for the Canadian. This was the knock on Dort’s game coming into the season and he is answering that question quite comprehensively.

https://twitter.com/nbagleague_EU/status/1201731096725114881?s=20

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With Dort, it is not just the numbers he is putting up; it is the effort he exhibits when he is on the court. Due to the Blue being very shorthanded now, they are having a tough time staying in games. Dort is putting the hustle and effort to grab rebounds, poke a ball away and be all things for the team.

He is also showing the ability to learn. The Blue have played the Memphis Hustle twice in three games, one home and then one away. The Hustle is the best team in the G-League right now and they managed to keep Dort to just nine points on 4-of-13 shooting. He did have seven assists, six rebounds, three steals, and a block.

Dort was ineffective scoring but put his mark on the game in so many other ways. However, in the return game eight days later, Dort went into their house and dropped 26 points on 7-of-16 shooting. He also had seven rebounds, which is important because the Blue is missing two of their starting front-court.

https://twitter.com/nbagleague_EU/status/1201058007011991552?s=20

While Dort has a good chance to win the rookie of the year, if he gets the call up to the varsity squad, he may not have the opportunity to win the award.

I hope that he gets the opportunity and the OKC Thunder reap the benefits of the talents of Luguentz Dort.