When Lu Dort burst on to the Thunder scene last season, it was a pleasant surprise. Here was this undrafted rookie finally getting his chance to show the NBA world just what he could do. Thunder fans quickly learned of his effort, energy, and tenacity. They saw his willingness to defend the opposing team’s best wing or guard, while also not begging for 20 shots a night on the offensive end.
He quickly became a fan favorite, and it all culminated in Game 7, when Dort scored 30 points against Houston while playing great defense on James Harden in the first round of last year’s playoffs.