Why Mark Daigneault believes Isaiah Hartenstein won the game for OKC against the Mavericks

OKLAHOMA CITY — Reflecting on his team’s perfect 6-0 start to the regular season, Oklahoma City Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault discussed how Isaiah HartensteinTheir impact cannot be overstated, including a recent win against the Dallas Mavericks. Amid injuries to Thunder All-Star starters Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren, Hartenstein praised Ajay Mitchell for his breakout start until the 2025-26 campaign.

Before the Thunder try to match their best start in franchise history in Sunday’s matinee against the New Orleans Pelicans, Dayno revealed just how important Hartenstein has been this season, especially in a 101-94 win over the Mavericks.

“Especially in the second half, he was great. He really changed the atmosphere out there with his display and his roll, what he does on the glass, what he does defensively,” Daigneault said. “He won us the game in Dallas. It’s never about one person, but if you have to pull out who had the biggest impact when the game was in the balance, he made a massive play in that game. He was outstanding. It’s just one person.”

“He had a career year last year, mostly because of where he is in his career, and he’s poised to have another great year this year,” Daigneault concluded.

Isaiah Hartenstein finished with 16 points, 12 rebounds and two steals in the Thunder’s win against the Mavericks. He has undoubtedly been a mainstay defensively in the frontcourt, especially in Holmgren’s absence, which will stretch to three straight games in the third and final game of Oklahoma City’s three-game homestand, as noted by Thunder head coach Mark Daigno.

Holmgren is coming off a productive season, averaging career bests in points (11.2), rebounds (10.7) and blocks (1.1) in 2024-25. He averaged 10.3 points, 11.0 rebounds and 1.3 steals per game for the Thunder this season.

Isaiah Hartenstein reacts to the diagnosis of Nikola Topic from Thunder

Thunder center Isaiah Hartenstein reflected on Nikola Topić’s testicular cancer diagnosis following Friday’s announcement by Thunder GM Sam Presti regarding Topic’s start of chemotherapy. After Friday’s win against the Wizards, Hartenstein showed his support.

“The main thing is just support,” Hartenstein said. “He’s been with us the last two years, and he’s been a great part of our team, even when he’s been hurt. It’s always been good to see him around. Us as a team, we rally behind him — that’s what makes our team special. Sam brings these people that no matter what somebody’s going through, we’re going to be there for each other, and I think that’s the biggest thing.”

The Thunder will wrap up their three-game homestand against the Pelicans on Sunday.