Everyone wants Lu Dort: “He’s the perfect fit for the Lakers and Doncic”
The Lakers have their sights set on Lu Dort, and NBA executives believe he’s the perfect player to pair with Luka Doncic and transform the team’s defense
Despite reports suggesting an offseason focused on continuity and minimal roster changes, the Los Angeles Lakers appear ready to be aggressive in free agency. Among the names highlighted by the front office, the two-way wing position stands out as a priority, and the ideal target for this summer is Lu Dort, currently with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
The Canadian guard is expected to become one of the most coveted names on the market should the Thunder decide not to exercise the $18.2 million team option in his contract. According to Sean Deveney of Heavy, a prominent Western Conference executive views Dort as the perfect addition to cover and compensate for the defensive weaknesses surrounding Luka Doncic on the perimeter.
If you’re the Lakers, you need to be at the front of the line for players like this. Lu Dort is the kind of guy who can single-handedly transform your perimeter defense. If the opportunity presents itself, signing him is a must. Los Angeles has had this problem for too long, and when you have Luka Doncic on your roster, you need elite 3-and-D specialists around him
Anonymous Western Conference Executive
Widely regarded as one of the NBA’s premier on-ball defenders, Dort would provide the Lakers with the toughness, defensive versatility, and high-level experience needed to help Doncic thrive. For his part, however, the player expressed loyalty to the Thunder during his end-of-season media availability.
We haven’t discussed it yet, but I have a lot of trust in this organization and in Sam Presti. My main goal is to stay here. This city feels like home to me
Lu Dort
Still, salary-cap realities may ultimately outweigh sentiment. With massive contract extensions set to kick in for stars such as Chet Holmgren – who faced heavy criticism following Oklahoma City’s elimination against the Spurs – and Jalen Williams, the Thunder’s payroll could surpass $250 million, compared to a projected salary cap of $165 million. That financial pressure could force Sam Presti to make difficult decisions and potentially part with key contributors.
During the 2025-26 season, Dort averaged 8.3 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 0.9 steals per game, continuing to prove his value despite a slight decline in offensive production.
If multiple teams pursue him in free agency, the Lakers would enter negotiations with nearly $60 million in cap space. The biggest obstacle in their pursuit may come from within. Los Angeles must first determine the cost of Austin Reaves’ expected mega-extension and wait for a final decision regarding LeBron James’ future before knowing exactly how much flexibility remains available.