Thunder Poised To Land Luguentz Dort Replacement

Sam Presti, the architect of this era, continues to stretch the gap between the Thunder and the rest of the league. His long-range planning may soon deliver Baylor freshman Tounde Yessoufou, a guard with elite physical tools and a rugged defensive identity. Oklahoma City could enter another draft with four first-rounders, depending on protections. Two may land in the lottery, a scenario that strengthens the NBA’s deepest young core.

The Long Tail of Presti’s Boldest Deals

These top-10 draft picks in 2026 stem from a 2021 Derrick Favors salary dump absorbed by the Thunder and the remnants of the Paul George trade. That blockbuster gave Oklahoma City five first-rounders, two swaps, and eventually Jalen. Now the Clippers’ unprotected pick, the last of the haul, sits in lottery range after their stagnant start. Their decision to load the roster with aging veterans now threatens to cost them dearly.

Both the Jazz and Clippers sit outside the West’s top eight, which positions Oklahoma City for multiple lottery selections. That dynamic places Tounde Yessoufou firmly within the Thunder’s reach. He offers the exact profile Oklahoma City covets: length, strength, discipline, and relentless defensive energy.

Why Yessoufou Fits the Thunder Blueprint

Yessoufou stands 6-foot-5 with a 6-foot-8.5 wingspan and a sculpted 215-pound frame. He ranks as a consensus top-15 recruit and carries a reputation for explosive two-way play. Coaches praise his motor, physicality, and ability to guard across three positions. His athletic violence mirrors Anthony Edwards, but his defensive posture and brute strength recall Luguentz Dort.

His body control allows him to absorb contact and attack the rim with force. He draws fouls, finishes through challenges, and bullies smaller guards. His handle remains limited, but Mark Daigneault’s scheme hides that weakness until he develops it. He already averages 18.5 points, 6.9 rebounds, 1.7 assists, and 2.3 steals through two games. His strong BPM numbers signal early impact potential.

Preparing for a Post-Dort Future

Dort helped anchor a championship defense and embodies the Thunder’s culture. But his deal expires in 2027, and every contender must prepare for second-apron consequences. Oklahoma City will eventually choose which core pieces to maintain. That pressure makes a top-10 draft pick in 2026 even more valuable for the Thunder. It also pushes the front office to evaluate Tounde Yessoufou as a viable successor.

Yessoufou’s strength, defensive versatility, quick hands, and ability to jump passing lanes mirror Dort’s presence. His frame and motor fit seamlessly into Daigneault’s structure. His upside offers more offensive growth than Dort ever showed at the same age.

The Thunder may soon replace one of their foundational defenders with a younger, cheaper, and equally ferocious alternative. If the standings hold, Oklahoma City will again weaponize patience, foresight, and a draft pick owed from a rival that underestimated the future.