Dort embraces Atlanta: renewed energy, old friendship and a fresh chapter

Lu Dort’s move to the Atlanta Hawks marks far more than a routine change of jersey. After seven seasons with the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Canadian guard welcomed the new chapter with genuine enthusiasm, immediately reaching out to Nickeil Alexander‑Walker, one of the closest friends of his career. The two share deep roots, having played together in high school and faced each other for years, and will now reunite in Atlanta for the 2026‑27 season.

Dort arrived on July 19 through a three‑team trade involving Dallas and OKC, a deal that sent former No. 1 pick Zaccharie Risacher to the Mavericks and brought Dort and Ryan Nembhard to the Hawks. Known for his defensive toughness, Dort adds experience to a perimeter group already featuring elite stoppers Dyson Daniels and Alexander‑Walker. Beyond basketball, Atlanta resonates personally for him thanks to its strong Haitian community. For Dort, the city already feels like home.