For months now, it has been widely debated who, between Lu Dort and Isaiah Hartenstein, the OKC Thunder would opt to part ways with as the front office attempts to duck under the dreaded second apron ahead of 2026-27.
Friday night, it seems we may have finally gotten our answer.
As first reported by NBA insider Shams Charania, Oklahoma City and Hartenstein have come to an agreement on a new, multi-year deal worth $75 million over three seasons, thus keeping the big man under team control through the 2028-29 campaign.
Dort, meanwhile, finds himself in limbo as the offseason encroaches on coming into full swing. Still well over $10 million north of the second apron, the Thunder moving on from the veteran and his $18.2 million team-option salary for next season would automatically get them below the $222 million threshold.
Of course, considering the reports that Shai Gilgeous-Alexander wishes to see his long-time teammate stay put, it's far from an easy decision for Sam Presti and company to make.
With that said, the sand in the proverbial hourglass leading up to a decision is rapidly running out.
Thunder must make a major Lu Dort decision by this coming Monday
The Thunder have only a few days left to make a final decision on one major Dort-related matter.
Monday, June 29, is the official deadline for players and teams to come to a resolution on the fate of their contract options for the upcoming season.
Given that Dort's deal is under club control next season, it goes without saying that this date is certainly important for both parties.
Should the Thunder opt out of his final year under contract, the veteran will head into the open waters of unrestricted free agency, where he can then choose to sign with any team that shows an interest in his services.
Opting in, on the other hand, officially locks in his salary for the 2026-27 season.
Of course, going the latter route doesn't necessarily mean Dort would be destined to return to the Sooner State.
A popular belief is that the best course of action for the Thunder when it comes to the All-Defensive guard is to opt into his final year under contract, and then trade him elsewhere, preferably to a team with either a TPE or ample cap space to avoid taking back any salary in return, and bring back future draft capital.
Clubs like the Boston Celtics and Charlotte Hornets have both been floated as potential trade partners Oklahoma City could enter negotiations with.
Of course, until a decision is made ahead of this Monday, it's anyone's guess what the Thunder are leaning towards doing when it comes to the fate of the beloved vet.
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