Isaiah Hartenstein, the free agent center, has agreed to a lucrative three-year, $87 million contract with the Oklahoma City Thunder, ESPN sources have confirmed.
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This move sees Hartenstein leave the New York Knicks to bolster the Thunder’s roster with his size, skill set, and physical presence.
At 26 years old, Hartenstein established himself as a pivotal starting center during the past season with the Knicks.
He assumed this role following Mitchell Robinson’s ankle injury in December, contributing significantly to New York’s successful campaign.
The Knicks achieved 50 wins and secured a playoff series victory for the second consecutive season, a feat not accomplished since 2000.
Throughout the season, Hartenstein showcased his capabilities, averaging 7.8 points and 8.3 rebounds per game while shooting an impressive 64.4% from the field.
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His defensive prowess was notable, evident in his ability to tally at least 85 blocks and steals each, and holding opponents to under 53% shooting at the rim.
Despite his defensive strengths and playmaking abilities, which include solid vision and passing skills for a center, Hartenstein’s offensive contributions were somewhat limited within Tom Thibodeau’s system in New York.
Hartenstein’s professional journey began with the Houston Rockets before stints with the Denver Nuggets, Cleveland Cavaliers, and LA Clippers, leading up to his two-year tenure with the Knicks starting in 2022.
Given the Knicks’ early Bird rights on Hartenstein, their offer was capped at a four-year, $72.5 million maximum, paving the way for his move to Oklahoma City.
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