With backs to the wall, the Thunder needed to set the tone early in Game 4 of the Finals. In fact, Mark Daigneault made the change, and they were moving back to their double-big starting lineup. So, the mission was clear: to be aggressive on defense. Not just with hoop activities, but even being extra chirpy throughout the first quarter. One man led them, Lu Dort, not just draining threes, but handling some elbows to the Pacers’ star guard, Tyrese Haliburton.

As stated before, Oklahoma City had to be aggressive. They turned up the aggression and sent double teams, blitzes, and traps at Tyrese Haliburton. But there was even an elbow from Dort. That’s why Richard Jefferson, on the broadcast, reiterated a message from the Thunder guard. “They’re pushing back and forth, and he’s doing a little extra. But Lu Dort told us in his meeting: ‘The minute a player goes and complains to the official, I believe I’ve got him. I’ve got him frustrated, I’ve got it a little rattled, I don’t think a foul has ever been called there.’ So if I’m Tyrese, I’m just being a little smart.”

No foul was called as the Thunder, after trailing early, went on a 9-0 run and ended the quarter with just one point behind 34-35. It’s not just in this game where Lu Dort and his abilities have been on full display. In game 1, five 3s at several key moments, had four first-half steals. Even during game 2, his teammate, Jalen Williams, made sure that the actions of the Canadian guard didn’t go unnoticed.

As ESPN’s Jorge Sedano did during a live interview between the third and fourth quarter of Game 2, Haliburton only had five points and three turnovers on 2-of-7 shooting at that point. What was the main reason behind the chokehold? “Lu Dort,” Williams said bluntly. Even the stats from The Athletic showcase the defensive ability. Tracking stats have Haliburton shooting just 20% when guarded by Dort through two games. So, who gets the credit for his actions?

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander praised teammate Lu Dort and his efforts

“A lot of things made me happier this year in terms of our team. Lu’s been what he’s been this year, his whole career. And for him to finally get the recognition that he deserves is very special.” Another teammate and 2025 MVP, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, had to praise Lu Dort for his constant presence during the games. Dort is also now part of Thunder lore as he made NBA Finals history, joining Kawhi Leonard as the only player to record four or more steals and make five or more 3-pointers in a finals game.

“Any time I can sneak one in there, a steal or block, I’ll go,” Dort told reporters after the game. “That’s just how I play. Whenever I get to do a play like that for my teammates, I’ll do it.” Throughout this season, Dorture Chamber has made positive contributions on both ends of the player. That’s why he even earned the nod for the All-Defensive First Team.

With the Thunder down in the series, Lu Dort will have to drain more threes, too, to help the team. They have earned the right to be one of the best defensive teams this season. But if they don’t win the championship, then that statistic won’t matter.