The Oklahoma City Thunder are facing a challenging season filled with injuries, and they urgently need to enhance the offensive contribution from their big man, Isaiah Hartenstein. The team has been grappling with health issues since the start of the season, culminating in a narrow 121-119 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers on Wednesday night, marking their first defeat of the year.
Despite the numerous injuries impacting the roster, Hartenstein has remained a constant presence, participating in every game. Recognized as the Thunder”s most significant free-agent signing in 2024, he has consistently performed as the starting center, whether alongside Chet Holmgren or not. In the recent matchup against Portland, Hartenstein was a vital asset to the Thunder”s aspirations for a ninth consecutive victory, although the team ultimately fell short.
In the face of a depleted roster, particularly at the wing and guard positions, several players, including Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, appeared fatigued as the game drew to a close. This situation presents an opportunity for the Thunder to utilize Hartenstein more effectively by running the offense through him in the high post. Although he recorded only three assists against the Blazers, there were ample chances for his teammates to benefit from his playmaking abilities.
While Hartenstein is not the most diverse scorer, his impressive floater and finishing touch around the rim, combined with his ability to execute powerful lobs and dunks, make him a credible offensive threat. However, he often relies on others to create scoring opportunities for him. Implementing more pick-and-roll scenarios involving Hartenstein or utilizing him more frequently in the dunker spot could enhance the Thunder”s offensive dynamics.
In the encounter with Portland, Hartenstein attempted just four shots. His shooting average has decreased from 8.4 attempts per game last season to 7.1 this season, with him taking seven or fewer shots in six of the first nine games. While it may be a challenge to increase his touches, Hartenstein can still have a significant impact on games without being a primary scorer. Nevertheless, on nights like Wednesday, when the Thunder are particularly shorthanded, Head Coach Mark Daigneault and his staff must find strategies to engage Hartenstein more offensively.
