OKC Thunder July 6, virtual media: Luguentz Dort spent hiatus invested in learning

Luguentz Dort was the featured attraction on the OKC Thunder July 6th virtual media session

For the past week, Thunder Nation has been treated to virtual media sessions from OKC Thunder players following their workouts.

To date, fans have heard from cornerstone talent Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Danilo Gallinari, and the always entertaining Steven Adams.

Launching this week’s session was the newly signed rookie Luguentz Dort. The youngster took to his screen to answer questions and share insights.

Luguentz Dort answers media questions:

I was hoping someone would ask Dort about the prospect of the OKC Thunder starting lineup featuring two Canadians. Although the rise of the North is undeniable Dort’s contract and his position in the starting rotation alongside countryman Shai Gilgeous-Alexander makes the Thunder the only team with the distinction of starting two Canucks.

Six NBA teams (Raptors, Warriors, Heat, Knicks, Grizzlies) feature two Canadians on their rosters (including 2-way contracted players) and 10 more feature one Canadian.

Dort grew up in Montreal and noted although he hasn’t decided what message he’ll sport on the back of his jersey but says it could be in French or Creole.

How Dort spent the hiatus:

As we’ve noted several times throughout the season, Dort was in a precarious position as a two-way player. Under the terms of that contract, he could only appear in 45 games with the varsity unit. However, even if he sat on the bench and didn’t get into the game or practiced with the team those actions were counted toward his 45-day tally.

In retrospect, it seems obvious, executive director of basketball operations Sam Presti’s intent was clearly tied to salary and capitalizing on pushing the contract as close to the 45-days as possible before converting him to a full-time contract and then the suspension came into play. The Arizona State alum is back in the gym getting in mandatory workouts having secured a four-year $5.4 million dollar deal. (Yet, another steal by Presto Presti).

Offsetting his inability to practice with the team, Dort prepared on his own for matches by watching film and that practice ramped up with the assistance of coaches during his hiatus.

And for those interested in the offensive aspects of his game and shooting the guard spent time getting up shots and figuring out ways to space the floor better. Presumably, a high percentage of “those shots” are from deep.

Dort on Dre:

When Billy Donovan hinted at Andre Roberson‘s potential return T.I. noted his return cold offer up an x-factor but also suggested his presence on the bench would be invaluable particularly assisting the younger guys with defense.

Terrance Ferguson cited Roberson as someone who was invaluable in his growth and it turns out he was also key in Dort’s development.

Like Donovan, Lu suggested Roberson looks good and went further stating he (Dre) ‘is ready to go’. We’re inclined to agree with Daily Thunder beat writer Brandon Rahbar who stated this was merely an observation. As much as everyone in the fanbase and team would love him to return we’ve heard this before (many times). It’s probably best to approach Dre’s return with hopeful optimism but not assume it’s a forgone conclusion.

The contract and family:

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Although it remains a bit shocking no one caught onto the talented shooting guard talents to draft him this past summer, it didn’t deter his mission. And, while he noted his family was there through it all draft night was tough for them. Coincidentally, he was able to make up for that since he signed his contract to the varsity team on his mother’s birthday.

Whether he was playing with the OKC Thunder G-League affiliate the OKC Blue or with the varsity squad he kept forcing the hands of the brain trust. He was simply too good to keep off the floor. As TI noted he made the best of his opportunities and now he’s getting rewarded. Albeit, the deal Presti signed him to has to be considered a steal especially if the Canadian continues to grow and develop his game.

The Thunder has one more day in Oklahoma City and barring any positive tests the team, staff, and traveling party that comprises the 35 team allotment will head to Orlando on Wednesday, July 8th.