Dort to the Hawks, Mathurin to the Pelicans: A Fresh Start in the NBA
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The new NBA season tips off with new colors for Haitian-descended players Luguentz Dort and Bennedict Mathurin. Both are starting a new chapter, with the Atlanta Hawks and the New Orleans Pelicans, respectively.
Dort leaves the Oklahoma City Thunder after several seasons with the franchise. Known for his defense, the Canadian guard of Haitian descent was named to the NBA All-Defensive First Team in 2025.
He also played a part in the Thunder’s run to the 2025 NBA title. In Atlanta, he is expected to bolster the team’s defense with his experience and skills. He will team up with Dyson Daniels, another standout defender, forming a duo that could make life difficult for the Hawks’ opponents.
Bennedict Mathurin lands in New Orleans
Bennedict Mathurin joins the New Orleans Pelicans after playing for the Indiana Pacers and the Los Angeles Clippers. Selected sixth overall in the 2022 NBA Draft, the Canadian player of Haitian descent has gradually established himself as an important offensive weapon.
In the 2025-2026 season, he averaged 17.6 points, 5.4 rebounds and 2.4 assists per game. He also helped the Pacers reach the NBA Finals in 2025.
Jephte Estiverne
Journaliste à Hebdo24, Wilner Bossou couvre principalement le sport, en particulier le football haïtien et international, ainsi que l'actualité, la sécurité et la société en Haïti.
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