Isaiah Hartenstein, set to become an unrestricted free agent, faces interest from the Oklahoma City Thunder. NBA sources identify the Thunder as the prime contender to lure Hartenstein from the New York Knicks in free agency.
Stefan Bondy of New York Post reports that the Thunder’s strong bid could overshadow the Knicks’ offer due to Oklahoma City’s financial flexibility.
Despite the Knicks’ ability to utilize Early Bird Rights for a starting salary of around $17 million, the Thunder may present a more enticing short-term deal, possibly spanning two years with a higher salary.
Hartenstein’s impending free agency follows a two-year, $16 million contract with the Knicks. This season, he showcased his value by averaging 7.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 2.5 assists in 25.3 minutes per game.
The Thunder’s potential offer could provide Hartenstein and the team with long-term flexibility, a key factor in negotiations.
In the playoffs, Hartenstein’s impact was notable as he started in all 13 games, contributing to the Knicks’ advancement to the second round. His versatility and performance have attracted attention from multiple teams, making his free agency an intriguing storyline.
