In the fast-paced world of the NBA, where superstars often dominate the headlines, certain players thrive on the fringes, offering tremendous value on both ends of the court. Luguentz Dort is one such player who has flown under the radar of casual fans, but anyone familiar with the NBA knows that his contributions to the Oklahoma City Thunder are undeniable. From his defense to his offensive versatility, Dort is quickly establishing himself as one of the league’s premier two-way players.
This article will provide an in-depth analysis of Luguentz Dort’s stats, highlighting his strengths and weaknesses, and offering insights into his playing style. Drawing on the most current data available, we’ll break down his 2024-2025 season performance, key statistics, and how he fits into the Thunder’s long-term strategy.
Who is Luguentz Dort?
Before diving into the numbers, let’s first establish who Luguentz Dort is. A Canadian-born player, Dort made a name for himself as an undrafted free agent who eventually earned a spot with the Oklahoma City Thunder. Known for his physical defense and ability to guard multiple positions, Dort’s standout characteristic has always been his defensive tenacity. However, over time, his offensive game has continued to evolve, making him a more well-rounded player for the Thunder.
Early Life and College Career
Dort was born in Montreal, Quebec, and played his college basketball at Arizona State. He played only one season in college (2018-2019) but was immediately known for his athleticism, toughness, and ability to defend. Although his shooting consistency was an area of concern during his college career, Dort’s all-around defense, combined with his explosive athleticism, made him a standout prospect. Despite not being drafted in the 2019 NBA Draft, Dort was signed by the Oklahoma City Thunder as a free agent. His work ethic, combined with the Thunder’s developmental focus, allowed him to earn consistent minutes and become one of the key players on the team.
Luguentz Dort’s Stats Overview: 2024-2025 Season
Let’s dive into Dort’s performance in the 2024-2025 NBA season, where he has continued to showcase his abilities on both ends of the court. We’ll start by breaking down his key statistics in major categories.
Points Per Game (PPG)
Luguentz Dort has significantly developed his scoring game, and in the 2024-2025 season, he has proven himself as a consistent offensive contributor for the Thunder.
Points per game: 16.8
Dort’s 16.8 points per game represent a noticeable jump from his earlier seasons in the NBA, where he averaged just under 13 points per game. This increase in scoring can be attributed to improvements in his shooting range, including better three-point shooting and his ability to drive to the basket. While not considered a primary scorer on the team, Dort has carved out a role as a reliable scoring option for Oklahoma City.
Field Goal Percentage (FG%)
Dort’s efficiency in scoring has improved, making him a more valuable offensive weapon. He’s become more selective with his shots, which has led to a higher field goal percentage than in previous seasons.
Field goal percentage: 45.2%
At 45.2%, Dort’s field goal percentage is a solid mark for a player who is asked to create his own shot frequently. This efficiency, combined with his growing role as a primary offensive player, makes him an asset on the offensive end of the floor.
Three-Point Percentage (3P%)
One area where Dort has consistently made strides is in his three-point shooting. While he was initially known for his athletic defense, his offense, particularly from beyond the arc, has improved year by year.
Three-point percentage: 36.5%
At 36.5%, Dort is now a respectable threat from the three-point line. His ability to knock down outside shots has made him a more well-rounded offensive player and a critical asset for the Thunder, who rely on spacing the floor around their young stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Josh Giddey. His improvements in this area have helped his team tremendously by giving them another option on offense.
Free Throw Percentage (FT%)
Free throw shooting has been one area where Dort has needed improvement, but he has managed to raise his numbers over the course of his career.
Free throw percentage: 82.1%
With an 82.1% free throw percentage in the 2024-2025 season, Dort has improved significantly in this category. His ability to convert at the charity stripe is an important development, as it helps ensure that he is efficient even when he’s fouled on drives to the basket or in transition.
Rebounds and Assists
While Dort is known primarily for his defense and scoring, he has also improved his ability to contribute in other areas, including rebounding and playmaking.
Rebounds per game: 4.1
Assists per game: 2.3
Dort’s 4.1 rebounds per game is a solid number for a guard, showcasing his ability to contribute on the glass. His 2.3 assists per game may not be high, but it highlights his willingness to make plays for his teammates when necessary. While not known as a primary playmaker, Dort’s ability to contribute in multiple ways increases his value on the floor.
Defensive Stats: The Heart of Dort’s Game
One of Dort’s most defining characteristics is his defensive abilities. Known as a lockdown defender, Dort’s defensive stats are some of the most impressive on the team.
Steals per game: 1.5
Blocks per game: 0.7
Dort’s 1.5 steals per game show his ability to disrupt passing lanes and pressure opposing ball handlers. His 0.7 blocks per game might not seem high, but it reflects his willingness to contest shots and protect the rim when needed. His defense, particularly against some of the league’s top scorers, has been a major reason why the Thunder have been competitive during his time with the team.
Defensive Rating and On/Off Court Stats
Dort’s impact on the defensive end can also be measured through advanced statistics, such as defensive rating and on/off court stats.
Defensive rating: 106.2 (Lower is better)
On/Off Court Stats: When Dort is on the court, the Thunder’s defense improves significantly, with a noticeable dip in points allowed per 100 possessions when he is off the floor. His defensive rating of 106.2 places him among the better defenders in the league. It reflects his ability to consistently challenge shots, force turnovers, and limit opponents’ scoring opportunities. The on/off court stats show that the Thunder are a much better defensive team when Dort is on the floor, emphasizing his importance to the team’s overall strategy.
Luguentz Dort’s Playing Style
To understand Dort’s stats fully, it’s essential to explore his playing style and how he fits into the Oklahoma City Thunder’s system. Known for his physicality and defensive intensity, Dort is often tasked with guarding some of the NBA’s best offensive players. However, his role is not limited to defense; he’s also become a reliable scorer and playmaker for the Thunder.
Defense: A Key Player on the Perimeter
Dort’s primary role is as a defender. He’s been tasked with defending elite scorers like LeBron James, Kawhi Leonard, and Stephen Curry over the years, and his tenacity on that end of the floor has earned him the nickname “the Thunder’s defensive bulldog.” His combination of size, speed, and strength allows him to defend multiple positions, whether it’s contesting jump shots or pressuring ball handlers at the perimeter.
Dort’s ability to guard both shooting guards and small forwards is one of the reasons the Thunder value him so highly. He can match up with players of all types, from the faster, more athletic guards to the bigger wings who thrive on post-ups and mid-range shooting.
Offense: Improving as a Scorer
While Dort’s offense was initially a work in progress, his scoring ability has steadily improved. He has developed into a reliable threat from both the three-point line and driving to the basket. Dort’s first step is explosive, allowing him to get to the rim quickly. He’s also capable of finishing through contact, making him a versatile offensive player. Though not an elite scorer like some of the other guards in the NBA, Dort has shown that he can consistently contribute in the offensive flow. His ability to knock down open three-pointers, combined with his aggressive drives, make him a difficult player to defend.
Physicality and Energy: The Heart of His Game
Dort’s playing style is defined by his physicality. He’s a tenacious defender who isn’t afraid to get into the chest of his opponent, disrupting their rhythm and forcing them into difficult shots. His high energy on the court allows him to impact both ends of the floor, making him one of the most well-rounded two-way players on the Thunder roster.
Luguentz Dort’s Rising Star in the NBA
Luguentz Dort has grown from an undrafted rookie into a cornerstone of the Oklahoma City Thunder’s future. With his combination of elite defense, improving offense, and relentless work ethic, he is proving to be one of the most valuable two-way players in the league. His stats from the 2024-2025 season not only show improvement but also reflect his importance to a young, competitive Thunder team looking to make waves in the Western Conference.
As he continues to evolve and gain more recognition, expect Dort to be a name that comes up more frequently in conversations about the NBA’s best defenders and most underrated players. For fans of the Thunder, and basketball enthusiasts in general, keeping an eye on Luguentz Dort’s stats is more than just number-watching—it’s witnessing the ascent of a future star.
FAQs
What is Luguentz Dort known for in the NBA?
Luguentz Dort is primarily known for his elite defensive skills. He is often tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best scorer. Dort’s ability to guard multiple positions, especially on the perimeter, has made him one of the league’s standout defenders. Offensively, he’s also improved over the years, showcasing his ability to drive to the rim and shoot from the three-point line.
Is Luguentz Dort considered a good defender?
Yes, Luguentz Dort is widely regarded as one of the best perimeter defenders in the NBA. He has earned praise for his ability to guard both guards and forwards, often taking on the toughest defensive assignments. Dort’s aggressive style of defense has earned him recognition as an All-Defensive Team candidate in recent seasons.
How did Luguentz Dort get into the NBA?
Dort was an undrafted free agent after playing one season for Arizona State University. His standout defensive abilities and potential on offense led the Oklahoma City Thunder to sign him to a contract in 2019. Dort made an immediate impact with the Thunder, earning a starting role and becoming one of the best young defensive players in the league.
How is Luguentz Dort’s three-point shooting?
Luguentz Dort’s three-point shooting has steadily improved since entering the NBA. He is now a solid threat from beyond the arc, with his career three-point shooting percentage standing at 34.5%. His ability to hit open threes helps space the floor for the Thunder, making him a valuable asset on offense.
What is Luguentz Dort’s role with the Oklahoma City Thunder?
Luguentz Dort plays a key role as both a defensive specialist and scorer for the Oklahoma City Thunder. While he primarily focuses on guarding the opponent’s best player, he has also developed into a reliable scoring option, often tasked with creating offense in the absence of other star players on the team.
In Summary
Luguentz Dort has steadily evolved from an undrafted rookie into one of the most respected perimeter defenders in the NBA. His commitment to defense, coupled with continuous growth on offense, has made him a core piece of the Oklahoma City Thunder’s rebuilding efforts. With each season, Dort is proving he’s more than just a defensive stopper—he’s a reliable scorer, leader, and future All-Star candidate. Whether you’re tracking his stats for fantasy basketball, analyzing his impact for OKC, or just a fan of gritty, hard-nosed basketball, Luguentz Dort is a name to watch. As he enters his prime, expect even bigger things from this Canadian standout.
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