Rockets could experience some regret after shocking Lu Dort trade

As the Rockets search for additional depth on the wing, a perfect trade target flew right by their radar with Lugentz Dort being traded to the Hawks in exchange for three second-round picks coming back to the Thunder. That would have been a worthwhile price for the Rockets to pay in order to bring in Dort, but Oklahoma City might have been hesitant about sending Dort to a conference rival. Either way, the Rockets can't do anything now but bemoan Dort's trade and get back to the drawing board.

Dort could have solved some issues in Houston

Although Dort may not seem like the type of player worth regretting, he has played an important role for the Thunder in previous seasons. He was the epitome of a 3-and-D wing as OKC rose to prominence. He wouldn't bring additional shot creation of his own to a new team, but could provide key spacing that helps other players get more comfortable in their offensive roles.

Dort had a down year shooting the ball last season, but hit 40% of his threes in the prior two seasons. On top of that he also provided exceptional defense as a physical force perfect for the Rockets team identity. In 2025, he even finished 4th in Defensive Player of the Year voting and ended up on the First Team All-Defense. The Rockets are already set with other perimeter stoppers, but none who have shown the same level of shooting over a whole season as Dort.

His ability to blend strong defense at multiple positions and solid shooting could have been a game-changer for the Rockets in terms of their depth. Dort stands just 6'4" tall, but can guard multiple positions due to his hulking 220lbs physique. He's capable of defending guards all the way up to big forwards and even centers in a pinch. With that versatility, he could sub in for multiple different Rockets when they need a breather.

Dort's last season eases the regret

However, it's also worth noting that Dort was noticeably worse and lost some playing time last season, both during the regular season and playoffs. Cason Wallace seemed to surpass him on the Thunder depth chart as a 3-and-D wing, especially as Wallace's shooting caught fire and he displayed more on-ball skills. Dort finished the season shooting just 38% from the field and 34% from three.

In the playoffs, it got even worse - 37% from the field and 31% from three. If the Rockets had gotten that version of Dort, he might have just made their existing problems even worse. They already have plenty of lockdown wings who can't reliably hit their outside shots.

Only time will tell if Dort finds his shooting touch again with a change of scenery. The Rockets missed out on a good opportunity to acquire him at his lowest trade value, but it still would have been a gamble.

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