Instead of cutting costs by declining their $17.7MM team option on Luguentz there for next season, rival executives expect the Thunder to exercise that option and explore his value on the trade market, according to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.
Scotto states that Dort has already been linked to the Lakerswho need to upgrade their perimeter defense, as well as several other teams. He adds that Nets head coach Jordi Fernandez worked with Dort as part of the Canadian national team, which could make Brooklyn an option as well.
Although he’s still considered an elite defender, Dort saw his playing time decline to 26.8 minutes per night this season, and his scoring average dropped below double figures for the first time since his rookie year. His role shrunk even more during the playoffs, even though Jalen Williams was unavailable for much of the postseason due to injuries. With Williams returning next season, along with the emergence of Ajay Mitchellthe midseason acquisition of Jared McCain and the defensive prowess of Cason Wallace and Alex Carusothere may not be enough minutes available at the wing to justify Dort’s salary.
There’s more on the Thunder:
- Oklahoma City also holds a $28.5MM option on starting center Isaiah Hartensteinwho’s expected to remain with the team, according to Scotto. The only question is whether the Thunder will pick up the option or decline it to give Hartenstein a long-term deal with a lower annual salary. On the latest Hoop Collective podcast (YouTube link), Tim Bontemps of ESPN said a multi-year deal is the most likely scenario.
- League sources tell Scotto that rival executives are keeping their eyes on Isaiah Joe and Aaron Wiggins to see if they become available as the Thunder try to control their team salary. Joe, a 40.6% career shooter from three-point range, will make $11.32MM next season and his contract includes a team option for the same amount in 2027/28. Wiggins, who’s also a prolific shooter from beyond the arc, has a team-friendly contract at $9MM for next season, $8.2MM in 2027/28 and a team option for $8.2MM in 2028/29. Scotto mentions Kenrich Williamswho has a $7.2MM team option for next season, as another player who might have to be moved to save money and states that several teams will be interested if that happens.
- Wallace will be eligible for a rookie scale extension this summer after earning a spot on the All-Defensive team. Scotto states that the 22-year-old guard would be “highly coveted” if he reaches restricted free agency next summer, adding that several teams have already contacted the Thunder to ask about his availability.
Comments are closed.