Why OKC is thrilled to have Isaiah Hartenstein back against the Timberwolves
First time since December, Oklahoma City Thunder center Isaiah Hartenstein wants to be in uniform for Thursday’s Western Conference Finals rematch against Minnesota Timberwolves. After facing the Toronto Raptors and New Orleans Pelicans without coach Marc Daigneault’s rotation, Hartenstein returns to the frontcourt, along with Chet Holmgren.
Thunder guard Isaiah Joe discussed the importance for Hartenstein to return to the fold ahead of a challenging two-game road trip, starting with the Timberwolves and ending against the Denver Nuggets on Sunday.
“It helps with size. It helps with everything – he’s an all-around player,” Joe said. “He rebounds, he screens, he creates action. He makes it easier for everybody else on the floor. Just having him out there can be dangerous. So getting him back is a big deal.”
For a veteran Lou Dortit’s Isaiah Hartenstein’s rebounding and presence in the paint that the Thunder have sorely missed in his absence.
“It’s great, especially the impact it has on rebounds,” Dort said. “It’s hard for him to get out of the paint. So that’s going to help, definitely.”
Chet Holmgren reveals SGA’s role in his comeback game
Thunder forward Chet Holmgren recognizes the added defensive pressure on All-Star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, which helped pave the way for his 20-point, 14-rebound performance in Tuesday’s win against the Pelicans.
“I’m always going to listen to the game and what our team needs to try to get the most out of the game,” Holmgren said. “Sometimes it’s going to be scoring, sometimes it’s going to be movement, sometimes it’s going to be plays, sometimes it’s going to be whatever. They were targeting Shaia a lot, especially down the stretch. I just tried to get in that pocket and make it four-on-three plays from it.
“Some plays go on the glass, some plays seemed to result. I felt like I got some really good shots out there in the fourth. I didn’t convert on some of them, but I really liked the process. I just have to keep it going — stay aggressive, but not get blindsided while I’m doing it.”
After a rare two-game losing streak at home, the Thunder will look to add another win to their road win column.
2026-01-30 00:05:00
