Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Loses Teammate as Thunder Trade Lu Dort

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s wish to keep longtime teammate Lu Dort on the Oklahoma City Thunder was overridden as the team executed a three-team trade on Sunday, July 20, 2026. The deal sent Dort to the Atlanta Hawks, dismantling part of the franchise’s 2025 championship core.

What happened in the trade?

The Thunder traded All-Defensive wing Lu Dort to Atlanta in a deal that also involved the Dallas Mavericks. Oklahoma City received three second-round picks, while Dallas acquired former No. 1 pick Zaccharie Risacher, and Atlanta got Ryan Nembhard. The move freed up $17.72 million in salary cap space for the Thunder.

Why it matters for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Dort and Gilgeous-Alexander had been teammates since 2019, sharing the longest tenure on the Thunder roster. They also played together for Team Canada in international competitions. Reports indicated Gilgeous-Alexander valued Dort’s presence, but Oklahoma City prioritized long-term financial flexibility over player preferences.

What comes next for the Thunder?

This trade continues the Thunder’s offseason trend of shedding payroll and accumulating draft capital. Earlier moves saw Isaiah Joe and Aaron Wiggins leave the team. With Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP-level play, Oklahoma City aims to balance championship contention with sustainable roster management.

Dort now joins Dyson Daniels and Nickeil Alexander-Walker in Atlanta, forming a defensive trio for the Hawks. Meanwhile, the Thunder’s focus shifts to maintaining their contender status while managing costs.