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OKC Thunder set for strong defense despite Lu Dort's departure

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 8, 2026, 1:55 AM

Last updated Aug 8, 2026

OKC Thunder set for strong defense despite Lu Dort's departure

Summary

The Oklahoma City Thunder look to maintain their defensive prowess for the upcoming season. Following the trade of Lu Dort to the Atlanta Hawks, the team remains optimistic due to its deep roster filled with versatile defenders. Chet Holmgren, a First Team All Defense selection, leads the defense, supported by players like Alex Caruso and Cason Wallace. Wallace is poised to take over Dort's role, as analysts have high expectations for his defensive capabilities. With a significant focus on defense, the Thunder aim to build on their record-breaking season.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Lu Dort traded to Atlanta Hawks last month
•Chet Holmgren finished #2 in Defensive Player of the Year voting
•Isaiah Hartenstein recognized as strong rim protector
•Cason Wallace expected to fill Dort's defensive role
•Thunder's defense key to title contention in upcoming season

Latest Updates

1:55 AMYahoo Sports — Top 5 OKC Thunder Defensive Players for 2026-2027

What they're saying

"
Despite losing Lu Dort’s lockdown presence, Oklahoma City’s deep roster of versatile stoppers and rim-protecting titans positions them to remain the NBA’s most intimidating defensive juggernaut.
— Yahoo Sports

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