Isaiah Hartenstein will be one of the most sought after free agents this coming season. One team that will be in the bull market is the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Dunder finished as the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference this year. However, their lack of a traditional center was magnified in the second round of the playoffs when the Dallas Mavericks frontcourt made a living catching lobs and scoring second chances. There seems to be mutual interest between Isaiah Hartenstein and the Oklahoma City Thunder at this point.
Oklahoma City Thunder Approaching Threat To Sign Isaiah Hartenstein
Isaiah Hartenstein's Impressive Campaign with the New York Knicks
Hartenstein was a revelation with the Knicks this past season. Especially in the playoffs. During the regular season, the center averaged 7.8 points, 8.3 total rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.1 blocks per game, and a field goal percentage of 64.4 percent. On top of this, Hartenstein also posted a career-best 136 offensive rating and a 108 defensive rating. In addition, he even recorded a player efficiency rating of 18.9, a high true shooting percentage of 67.0%. , and a plus/minus box ratio of 3.5.
During the playoffs, Isaiah Hartenstein was one of the most important players in New York. He made big play after big play and showed his value as a defender that made life difficult for Joel Embiid at times. All last season, he averaged 8.5 points, 7.8 total rebounds, 3.5 assists, 0.9 blocks per game, and a field goal percentage of 59.2 percent. Hartenstein is an ideal role player for most teams and would be a good fit for the Oklahoma City Thunder.
His Possible Fit With The Oklahoma City Thunder
While some may have concerns about splitting the Thunder's lineup with Hartenstein in the mix, one may argue that it will come out in the end. He would provide rim protection while the Thunder's “big three,” of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and Jalen Williams would continue to impact them offensively.
While the Thunder like to open up the paint for Gilgeous-Alexander and Williams to cut and attack the rim, Hartenstein will also be another area to defend second chances. He would provide the body on the floor while Chet Holmgren could play an extended role focusing on his face game up top. Considering all of this, it makes sense why the Oklahoma City Thunder are showing serious interest in the seven-foot big man.
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