Oklahoma City Thunder forward Luguentz Dort has impressed after becoming a full-time starter last month and the undrafted rookie could have solidified his place on the roster as a result.
Dort, who is signed to a two-way contract, spent most of the first half of the season with the OKC Blue in the G League. He has played the past month with the Thunder in the NBA after taking the place of Terrance Ferguson in the lineup, who missed time due to personal reasons.
The former Arizona State product has played well since entering the starting lineup on Jan. 20, averaging 7.9 points and 1.6 rebounds in 14 games. Dort recorded a career-high 23 points on Jan. 29 and has scored in double figures in each of his last two games.
Dort has 22 appearances in the NBA and is likely nearing the end of his 45-day service clock in the NBA. In order to be eligible for the playoffs, the Thunder will have to convert his contract to a standard NBA deal, which is likely to happen, according to Royce Young of ESPN.
The 20-year-old has given the Thunder a sound defensive option this season and his play has even drawn praise from teammate Chris Paul. He was once touted as a first-round prospect but has been a steal for the Thunder this season and could be soon rewarded.
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