The Oklahoma City Thunder have been without an integral piece in Isaiah Hartenstein since Dec. 29, when he re-aggravated the right calf strain that has plagued him throughout the season.
Hartenstein has played just 24 games this season, averaging 11.2 points, 10.4 rebounds, and three assists while knocking down 64.4% of his attempts from the field.
Unlike other teams, Oklahoma City's gameplan is not entirely founded on rebounding and second chance opportunities. But having Hartenstein available and ready to take on extensive minutes gives them unmatched versatility in their frontcourt alongside Chet Holmgren.
Now, as Hartenstein begins to take steps towards his return, the Thunder can look forward to getting one of their most vital pieces back for the most important stretch of the season.
Isaiah Hartenstein will give the Thunder a major boost when he returns
While we do not have a definite timeline for Hartenstein's return yet, he took positive strides over the weekend. He participated in a personal workout after the Thunder's shootaround prior to their game against the Miami Heat on Saturday.
When asked about how Hartenstein has handled his rehab this season, head coach Mark Daigneault had nothing but praise, per Justin Martinez of The Oklahoman.
" He’s just a pro. Even if you look at his NBA career, he’s had a lot of different experiences that he’s had to endure. … He applies all of those experiences to the circumstances he’s in at any given moment. He does a great job of being present in whatever is going on, including right now."Mark Daigneault
It goes without saying that Hartenstein's rebounding ability and his willingness to play alongside Holmgren in select starting lineups are absolutely necessary tools for Oklahoma City.
Between the start of the season and Nov. 26, when Hartenstein suffered his first injury of the season, the Thunder were 15th in the NBA in rebound percentage. Since Dec. 29, when Hartenstein went out again, they are 29th.
Rebounding is not crucial to Oklahoma City's offensive identity, but a drop-off this significant is bound to have major effects. Even against the Heat (who are 23rd in rebound percentage in that span), they lost the rebounding battle 46-51.
They ultimately lost the game 120-122.
Hartenstein's ability to gain the Thunder extra possessions on the offensive glass is absolutely vital to winning the possession battle. Jaylin Williams is capable of taking on solid minutes, but he does not provide nearly the impact Hartenstein does in that regard.
Although we do not yet know exactly when Hartenstein will be back, the Thunder must be anxiously awaiting his return.