Lakers predicted to make ceiling-altering trade for $87.5 million Thunder defensive star, NBA champion

The Los Angeles Lakers have a tremendous opportunity in front of them this summer. 

The franchise has the natural appeal and draft capital to make moves that turn its weaknesses into strengths before the new season begins. Bleacher Report’s Polacek is a firm believer that an Oklahoma City Thunder defensive star and NBA champion could be a ceiling-altering addition for Los Angeles.

“While the future of LeBron James and Austin Reaves will be the biggest storyline for the Purple and Gold this offseason, they also need to improve the defense,” Polacek wrote Saturday. “And adding someone like (Lu) Dort would be an ideal way to do just that.”

“Dort was an All-Defensive First-Team selection during the Thunder's 2024-25 championship campaign and is known for his overall physicality and versatility on that end of the floor that allows him to defend multiple positions. Still, there are some concerns about his offense with his future under the spotlight this offseason.”

“Dort connected on 43.5% of his field-goal attempts and 41.2% of his three-pointers during the championship season, which was particularly important when opposing defenses collapsed on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The defense is excellent, but he could be a ceiling-altering addition if he returns to the form he previously displayed on the offensive end of the floor.”

Polacek’s strong recommendation for the Lakers comes after HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto reported that Dort, who holds a $17.7 million team option for next year, has been linked to Los Angeles to begin the offseason.

There aren't many defenders in the big leagues who are more impactful than Dort. The Arizona State product has mastered the art of taking away opponents’ strengths, using his brute strength to prevent determined playmakers from getting clean looks at different spots on the floor, and using his space-closing technique to ensure ball handlers know they can’t afford to play nonchalantly in his presence. 

Offensively, Dort’s high-arching three-point jumpers connected at a mediocre 34.4% clip, but he has shot the ball well from deep in recent years. If Dort becomes available this summer, it would be difficult to argue against the notion that he would be an above-average three-and-D acquisition.

More NBA news:

• Lakers linked to massive four-team Giannis Antetokounmpo trade for $106 million shot-blocking star

• Spurs predicted to outbid Warriors for $101 million Lakers star, four-time NBA champion

• Luka Doncic sends clear message to Lakers on roster they can't afford to ignore