The Dream starting 5 for the Heat 5 years from now
By Tyler Watts
SG: Luguentz Dort
The Thunder are loaded with young talent, but decisions come fast in the NBA. With the salary cap exploding, players are getting more expensive. If Chet Holmgren and Josh Giddey become stars next to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City will have several difficult roster decisions to make. Dort could become a casualty of the Thunder’s success.
The 6’3 wing is a stout perimeter defender who moves his feet well and has the strength to switch on larger players. Dort is never afraid of a challenge and continues to improve. He averaged 13.7 points, 4.6 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.0 steal in 30.7 minutes per game last season. His shooting efficiency must improve, but fans have seen gains already.
Oklahoma City has a team option on Dort’s contract in 2026. If he is not part of their long-term future, the Thunder could look to move on. The Heat will have multiple deals off their books and could have room to add Dort. It is difficult to say what assets it would take and what Miami will have at that stage.
The Miami Heat will need shooting and defense around their star trio. Dort must become a 35 percent 3-point shooter to go with his stout defense. He will be 29 years old in 2028 and at the backend of his prime as the Heat attempt to stay in contention.