In the head of Luguentz Dort in defense | NBA

In its development process, Oklahoma City has recently been able to celebrate the performances of Josh Giddey or the return to form of its leader, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The progress of Luguentz Dort, already in the light last season, is another reason for satisfaction.

The Haitian-born Canadian full-back recently distinguished himself with impressive defensive streaks of intensity, which notably enabled the Thunder to secure their first victory of the season against the Lakers, Luguentz Dort having also delivered the most successful of his start to the season on this occasion.

Work, study, mind

Two games before this one, during an opposition against Philadelphia, a duel in front of Furkan Korkmaz, completely stifled by the intensity of his direct opponent, had put Lu Dort in the light.

The opportunity for the person to give some of his “tips” to increase his level in defense. The mind is often put forward, but the importance of work and preparation are also essential.

“You really have to focus on your footwork. There are a lot of exercises to work on your agility, footwork and strength at the same time ”, he confided. “You also have to know the players, know what their little tricks are, watch a lot of videos about them. Knowing the players and what they are doing on the pitch is also how we improve defensively ”.

Set an example for the rest of the team

The mental aspect remains the main driving force. To allow him to reach a high level of intensity but also to set an example for the rest of the team, and encourage his teammates to keep up to date.

“My state of mind is that I’m already not backing down from anyone. I make fun of whoever is in front of me, I am ready to fight and bring a lot of energy ”, he added. “If one of my teammates sees me pushing hard on defense and focusing on it, it can hurt them and they’ll try to do the same. You also have to be able to communicate and speak. We have a lot of new and young players, so you just have to be able to talk. That’s what I try to do, lead by example and speak up ”.

There is no doubt that when he takes an all-terrain opponent and gives him a nightmare like he did against Furkan Korkmaz, his teammates feel their wings grow. This kind of action will in any case strengthen him in the way he can bring to his team, with still a big room for improvement for the Canadian.

“I feel like I’m still growing”, concluded the one who now wants to be called “the beast” about his defense. What to frighten the adversaries who will cross his path.