The Oklahoma City Thunder have decided to keep Lu Dort for another season, exercising his $17.7 million team option for 2026-27 after their seven-game Western Conference Finals loss to the San Antonio Spurs on May 31. The move signals the Thunder’s faith in the core that powered deep playoff runs despite missing key players.
What happened?
On Monday, ESPN reported the Thunder would pick up Dort’s option, locking him in through next season. Dort, 27, started 69 games last year and averaged 8.3 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.2 assists while anchoring the defense. He earned All-Defensive First Team honors in 2024-25 and delivered in the playoffs when Jalen Williams and Ajay Mitchell were sidelined.
Why it matters for Oklahoma City Thunder
Keeping Dort preserves continuity around Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder’s longest-tenured starter. Their recent form shows a dip-four straight losses bookend a single win-but the roster still carries championship odds of +250 at DraftKings, just behind San Antonio’s +260. Dort’s defense and experience figure to matter against the Spurs again next season.
What comes next?
The Thunder’s offseason focus likely turns to health and depth after the grueling seven-game series. With Williams and Mitchell returning from injuries, the front office may explore modest upgrades rather than wholesale changes. Dort’s retention keeps a reliable two-way piece in the fold as OKC eyes another title run.
Last result: Oklahoma City Thunder 103-111 San Antonio Spurs (2026-05-31).
