OKC Thunder: 3 biggest surprises through first half

OKC Thunder first-half surprise No.2:  Lu Dort possesses the clutch time gene

Prior to the season start many felt Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was the only “untouchable” asset in the OKC Thunder roster. Meanwhile, the development and growth of youngsters Luguentz Dort, Darius Bazley, and Hamidou Diallo was a big talking point.

While each has taken steps Dort is the man who cemented his position in the future core. First of all, there is the insane bargain basement deal Sam Presti signed the undrafted defensive specialist to. Scan the contracts around the NBA and you’d be hardpressed to find a more economical deal than what Presti inked Dort to — four years at $5.4 million. I mean seriously, Dort should be earning that on a yearly basis!

Everyone knew Dort would be the top defender on the club but no one expected his rapid offensive development.

Through 36 games, Dort has essentially doubled his point tallies from 6.8 to 12.3 this year. His rebounds and assists are also up from 2.3 and 0.8 to 3.5 and 1.5 respectively.

The one area many point to is his 3-point shooting which is still a work in progress. His efficiency is slightly better this season but the notable takeaway is Dort leads the team in made 3-pointers (68) this year. That’s one better than 3-point sniper Mike Muscala.

Having to guard the opponent’s best player can take a toll so those 1 of 9 nights from deep will happen but the youngster has proven he is committed to working to improve. More importantly, Lu also is showing a penchant for ‘the moment’ and solidified that Game 7 performance versus the Rockets wasn’t an outlier.

His game-winning 3-point shot versus the Spurs was one of the team’s highlights from the first half. While the “Dorture Chamber” is resonating with the National media, I suspect Clutch Time Dort will be in the mix for years to come.