Isaiah Hartenstein’s Injury is Causing Problems for OKC

One major factor about Hartenstein’s absence is his bulk. As a center, IHart provides a lot of necessary length and even boxes out for the Thunder. He’s considered a bruiser in the paint, grinding his way inside and taking on big men. It’s worth considering that OKC’s move to add him in the 2024 offseason is a win.

Size is a long-term issue for the Thunder, and IHart answers that well with his length and strength in dominating the paint. However, this is just one of the reasons why Oklahoma City needs him back now more than ever.

Hartenstein’s Playmaking

One of the big things that was really enticing for OKC to bring IHart in back then was his playmaking. Back in his time with the New York Knicks, the center proved to be a great distributor. He was setting picks at the top of the key, then either opening it up for an open shot or cutting inside for a drive. At this point, the Thunder have made good use of his skills in that regard.

You can often spot Hartenstein putting up some impressive picks for Jalen Williams, who is usually his cutting partner. Then there’s also Chet Holmgren, who benefits a lot by moving to the power forward spot whenever Hartenstein’s in. In fact, Holmgren plays much better when he’s at the four, being able to stretch his play and come as a secondary rim protector.

In his defense, Chet has been a good player at the middle of the rim. We’ve seen how he’s been able to accumulate plenty of blocks in manning the middle. However, IHart’s presence is still a huge game-changer for OKC.

Is Hartenstein The Answer to OKC’s Struggles?

Going into the rest of the January slate for OKC, it does seem there are some issues worth looking into. After going 24-1 in their first 25 games, the Thunder are struggling with a 6-5 record, which is quite unusual for a defending champion. Remember, they were originally poised to go for 77-5, which is now impossible for them.

Keep in mind that the Thunder’s starting five of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Luguentz Dort, J-Dub, Chet, and Hartenstein is standing with a 1-3 record this season. IHart’s absence is a problem on a rotational basis because it makes OKC smaller. It forces the team to field guards such as Cason Wallace and even Ajay Mitchell to start in his place.

The bottom line is that Hartenstein isn’t actually the answer for OKC’s struggles. However, having him available on the roster gives head coach Mark Daigneault plenty of options to roll around.