The Oklahoma City Thunder held their annual Media Day on Monday, and the assembled media was able to talk to each player. This was an extremely fun day full of laughs, optimism, and insight for everyone who attended and followed along. Being in the room when Lu Dort walked in, obviously, the first reaction is always wow, he is huge. But past that, the biggest takeaway from his presser was his health.
The undrafted Arizona State product played in just 51 games a year ago. His third year in the NBA was cut short due to shoulder surgery. Throughout last season, Lu Dort flashed another step forward, even earning a Western Conference player of the week nomination for averaging 20 points, four rebounds, an assist, and a steal during that stretch shooting an effective 54 percent from the floor. In that span, Dort shut down superstar James Harden and OKC ripped off four of their 24 wins.
At Oklahoma City Thunder Media Day, defensive star Lu Dort proclaimed he is “back and ready to go”
Outside of Chet Holmgren’s season-ending injury, Ty Jerome stepping away from the team as the organization works out his next steps, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s short-term MCL injury that it does not appear will hamper him for too long, the OKC Thunder are healthy entering training camp.
Lu Dort on his rehab this offseason from his shoulder injury “I am back and fully ready to go.” pic.twitter.com/3OtcBSt1kD
— Rylan Stiles (@Rylan_Stiles) September 26, 2022
Lu Dort assured the OKC Thunder fanbase that he is “back and fully ready to go.” It will not be long until you see Lu Dort on the court again locking up the opposition, fresh off a brand new contract.
With the pieces the Oklahoma City Thunder have added this offseason, it appears Lu Dort will be put in a role more suitable for him. I expect a leap in efficiency during the 2022-23 campaign.