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INDIANAPOLIS — Had the Oklahoma City Thunder managed to secure a Game 1 victory they dominated until late in the fourth quarter, Luguentz Dort’s standout performance would have been a key topic of discussion.
Dort contributed significantly with five 3-pointers at crucial moments, recorded four steals in the first half as part of a total of 19 turnovers forced by the Thunder, and delivered what looked like a game-defining block with just 95 seconds remaining. He came from the weak side to support against an Aaron Nesmith drive, employing perfect verticality to contest the shot, which led to Nesmith tumbling to the court.
This play set the stage for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s fast-break layup, extending the Thunder’s lead to five points with 87 seconds left. After that pivotal four-point swing, Dort seemed poised to be celebrated as the unsung hero of a Game 1 win, before their subsequent meltdown.
In Game 2, however, Dort’s statistics were far less impressive. He connected on a single 3-pointer and notched just one steal. Gilgeous-Alexander was the centerpiece of attention, while Alex Caruso emerged as the defensive standout, sinking four 3-pointers and contributing more to the discourse.
Yet the Pacers’ most pressing issue remains Tyrese Haliburton’s ongoing struggle to establish a consistent rhythm, with Dort clearly playing a significant role in that challenge. As ESPN’s Jorge Sedano pointed out during a live discussion with Jalen Williams in the third to fourth quarter transition of Game 2, Haliburton had managed only five points, coupled with three turnovers on 2-of-7 shooting at that moment.
What’s been the Thunder’s formula for containing him?
“Lu Dort,” Williams replied succinctly.
The Thunder’s capacity to disrupt and contain opposing star scorers is not solely dependent on Dort. They boast elite rim protectors, possess no discernible weak defenders, and have a versatile roster capable of switching up defensive assignments — a strategy that The Athletic has highlighted in relation to Dort, Caruso, and Cason Wallace, a burgeoning defensive talent mentored by Dort.
“Oklahoma has a wider variety of players to match up against a superstar compared to our previous foes,” noted Pacers coach Rick Carlisle. “They can utilize a mix of larger, smaller, and intermediate players against Tyrese and Pascal (Siakam). That’s one of their advantages.”
Haliburton remarked, “They have more high-level defenders at the point of attack than most teams in the league. They’re incredibly cohesive on the defensive end, integrating various coverages. Coach (Mark) Daigneault is bold in adjusting strategies as needed, eschewing traditional approaches.”
However, Williams’ pointed two-word response during the interview underscores the impact Dort has made, and it’s evident why the entire team advocated for his selection to the All-Defensive first team this season. He serves as the sturdy backbone of their defensive efforts and is a primary factor contributing to Haliburton’s difficulties. Tracking statistics reveal Haliburton’s shooting plummeting to 20 percent when being guarded by Dort across the first two games.
“His ability to maintain high energy while also being physical yet astute is impressive,” Caruso told The Athletic. “Making an All-Defensive team isn’t just about talent; it showcases intelligence as well. He has a repertoire of defensive skills. While people often discuss offensive tactics, he possesses an extensive array of defensive techniques.”
Perhaps the most alarming statistic for Haliburton through two games is his eight turnovers: in contrast, he accumulated only 10 turnovers over six games against the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference finals, and zero in Games 4 and 5. During the regular season, he averaged just 1.6 turnovers per game and 1.9 through the Eastern playoffs, making it a notable strength for a high-usage player.
Nevertheless, Haliburton’s struggles were evident, accumulating five turnovers in Game 1 and three in Game 2 as he repeatedly fell victim to the Thunder’s unyielding pressure. This included Dort, who often nudges opponents into uncomfortable positions, creating opportunities for his teammates to steal the ball or, at times, taking matters into his own hands, exemplified by a steal he executed from behind as Haliburton attempted to initiate a fast break.
The sequence began with Bennedict Mathurin passing to Haliburton with only nine seconds left on the shot clock. Dort powered through a Myles Turner screen, staying glued to Haliburton even beyond the 3-point line. He maintained close contact for several seconds as Haliburton was unable to approach the basket, with Dort also complicating a late-clock pass. Ultimately, the possession concluded with Mathurin mishandling the ball.
“Maybe,” Dort speculated. “I mean, I’m not sure. My approach will remain unchanged. Our strategy will be consistent. I’m not aware of what their game plan is.”
Regardless, the Thunder’s approach on defense will stay constant. It will commence with Dort on Haliburton, supported by a contingent of formidable defenders and switchable wings behind him.
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Anthony Slater is a senior writer for The Athletic, focusing on the Golden State Warriors. With a decade’s experience covering the NBA, he previously reported on the Oklahoma City Thunder for The Oklahoman. You can find Anthony on Twitter @anthonyVslater.
