After leaving New York in free agency in the summer of 2024, Isaiah Hartenstein has found success in a new situation, a move that has paid off well, as Stefan Bondy of the New York Post writes.
The big man secured a three-year, $87MM contract and has since become a key defensive presence for the Oklahoma City Thunder, while also expanding his role offensively.
“I think [the playmaking] has always been there,” Hartenstein said.
“I think before I got to the Knicks, it was one of the main things I was doing with the Clippers. But I think as an NBA player you just have to put your ego aside and kind of do what’s best for the team.
“I think when I was with the Knicks, I kind of had to change the role I was playing. And so, again, I’m just here to help the team whatever way I can, and I think with the Knicks it was more doing stuff differently.”
So far this season, he is averaging 9.4 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in 24.8 minutes per game.
Northwest Notes: SGA MVP Race, Hartenstein, Pullin, Gordon, Johnson https://t.co/AtaqRiBR1h pic.twitter.com/kTCKTZShkv
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) April 1, 2026
