Thunder sign former Knicks center Isaiah Hartenstein
The Oklahoma City Thunder bolstered their frontcourt by agreeing to a three-year, $87 million deal with center Isaiah Hartenstein.
The 26-year-old is coming off a strong campaign where he proved to be a key part of the New York Knicks‘ resurgent campaign. He averaged 7.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, 1.1 blocks, and 1.2 steals while shooting 64.4 percent from the floor in 75 games with 49 starts.
Hartenstein showcased his ability to be a stout rim protector and strong rebounding presence. He was one of three players last season to notch at least 85 blocks and 85 steals while holding opponents to below 53 percent shooting near the rim.
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The Knicks’ busy offseason, coupled with only being able to offer Hartenstein at most a four-year, $72.5 million, likely led to him being out of their long-term plans. His departure will put Mitchell Robinson into the starting center role while significantly impacting the depth at the position.
Hartenstein joins a rising Thunder team that just secured the best regular-season record in the stacked Western Conference. He will figure to start or play a significant role alongside Chet Holmgren.
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The Thunder possesses one of the league’s better defenses, which should only strengthen with Hartenstein’s presence. The front office also secured key rotational players Isaiah Joe to a four-year, $48 million, and Aaron Wiggins to a five-year, $47 million.
Oklahoma City is hoping to take the next leap forward into becoming a legitimate NBA title contender next season. The franchise already holds a young and talented roster that figures to be a prominent factor for the foreseeable future.
