9. Signing Lu Dort as an undrafted free agent
Dort played just one season at Arizona State before declaring for the 2019 NBA Draft. There were flashes of his potential as he won Pac-12 Rookie of the Year and made Pac-12 All-Defense, but his shooting efficiency left plenty to be desired.
Dort stayed in the draft but was not selected. The 6’3 wing was quick to sign with the Thunder as an undrafted free agent. He worked his way into the rotation as a rookie because of his defense and averaged 29.2 minutes per game over their final six playoff contests against the Rockets.
His role continued to grow as Dort became a starter in year two and a crucial 3-and-D wing as the Thunder worked their way into contention. There have always been questions about his jumper, but Dort is working to make it a non-issue. He will play stout defense and is settling into a lesser offensive role.
Every contender needs a perimeter defensive stopper, and Luguentz Dort is the Thunder’s. The 24-year-old has not reached his prime and should continue improving. Sam Presti and his front office uncovered an undrafted gem in 2019, and Dort appears ready to be an impactful rotation piece for years to come in the NBA.