Free agent center Isaiah Hartenstein has signed a lucrative three-year, $87 million contract with the Oklahoma City Thunder, leaving the New York Knicks for the top West seed. Sources confirmed the deal to ESPN, highlighting Hartenstein’s valuable addition to the Thunder’s roster with his size, skill, and physicality.
Hartenstein, 26, solidified his reputation as a reliable starting center during his tenure with the Knicks, especially stepping up after Mitchell Robinson’s ankle injury in December. His performance was pivotal in a memorable season for the Knicks, who secured 50 wins and a playoff series victory for the second consecutive year, a feat not achieved since 2000. Hartenstein averaged 7.8 points and 8.3 rebounds per game, playing in 75 games (49 starts) and shooting an impressive 64.4% from the field.
Known for his defensive prowess, Hartenstein was one of only three players last season to record at least 85 blocks and 85 steals. He also held opponents to under 53% shooting at the rim. Despite his defensive focus, Hartenstein’s vision and playmaking skills for a center are notable, although these were less emphasized in Tom Thibodeau’s offensive system.
Hartenstein began his career with the Houston Rockets before moving to the Denver Nuggets, Cleveland Cavaliers, and LA Clippers. He signed a two-year deal with the Knicks in the summer of 2022. Due to the Knicks’ early Bird rights limitations, they could only offer him a four-year, $72.5 million contract.
In addition to Hartenstein, the Thunder secured long-term extensions with key reserves Isaiah Joe and Aaron Wiggins. Joe agreed to a four-year, $48 million deal, while Wiggins signed a five-year, $47 million contract. The Thunder declined their relatively small team options—$2.1 million for Joe and $2 million for Wiggins—with the intention of locking them into multiyear agreements.
Hartenstein’s move to the Thunder marks a significant step in his career, bringing his defensive skills and versatility to a team aiming to maintain its top position in the Western Conference.
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