While the New York Knicks are preparing for a playoff push, and there's a chance that Isaiah Hartenstein will leave in the offseason. Hartenstein, who has been filling in for Mitchell Robinson due to injury, is expected to attract interest on the market. The Oklahoma City Thunder are a team to keep an eye on.
According to Eric Pincus of Bleacher Report, Hartenstein could join the Thunder in the upcoming offseason. Hartenstein has had the opportunity to start 30 games for the Knicks this season due to injuries. He performs well in rebounding, shot-blocking, with a 60.4 percent shooting accuracy, and is still under 26 years old. He's a legitimate 7-footer who could come off the bench or play alongside Holmgren in the rotation.
“Hartenstein is earning $9.2 million. The Thunder could have up to $27 million in cap space, but a $15 million starting salary should be plenty to snatch Hartenstein away from the Knicks.
Hartenstein would probably be a bench player, but that's the role he's accustomed to throughout his career.
What Contributions Would Hartenstein Make to the Thunder?
The Oklahoma City Thunder have shown potential as an up-and-coming team in the NBA this season.
Chet Holmgren demonstrating strong performance after missing his rookie season due to injury confirms the possibility of a potential dynasty for the team. At the very least, the Thunder should be among the top contenders for the championship in the near future. While Holmgren has been impressive and can defend the rim effectively, the team sometimes struggles with lack of size. Adding the New York Knicks center would provide them with another dependable option off the bench, offering size, rebounding, and defense.
Pincus explained why Hartenstein would be a good fit for the Thunder.
“Chet Holmgren may not win the Rookie of the Year award, but finishing second to Victor Wembanyama is a strong achievement. As fans urge the Thunder to be aggressive in trades and/or free agency, the front office has quietly built one of the top teams in the Western Conference.
“The team's playoff performance will determine its future, but the most glaring weakness seems to be the lack of size in the front line. The Thunder may not be seeking a starting player in free agency, but Isaiah Hartenstein (No. 20 on our free-agent big board) could be the ideal addition.”
Knicks Have Challenges in Free Agency Due to Injuries
Julius Randle
Losing Jalen Brunson, , and Robinson suffered injuries this season, impacting the New York Knicks' performance as they had to rely on other players., OG AnunobyHowever, the silver lining of the injuries is that they allowed many Knicks role players, like Hartenstein, to take on bigger roles. The 25-year-old capitalized on these opportunities and is now set to enter the open market at the peak of his career.
If it weren't for the injuries the Knicks experienced, Hartenstein would have likely continued in a smaller role, making him a potential candidate for the Knicks to re-sign in the offseason.
Instead, he had a more significant role, and teams such as the Oklahoma City Thunder were able to witness his true abilities.
Isaiah Hartenstein, who plays for the New York Knicks as a center, is expected to join the Oklahoma City Thunder during the free agency period this year.
