Isaiah Hartenstein has been an X-Factor for the Oklahoma City Thunder. Unfortunately, he’ll be forced to the sidelines for 10-14 days with a right soleus strain, per a team announcement on Saturday evening. He missed the game on Friday night due to soreness in his right ankle. With this new injury, questions have been cast about his status.
Hartenstein has been perhaps the most impressive player for the Thunder this season, starting in all 19 games and counting played so far this season. His performance has been instrumental to the team’s gaudy record of 19-1. Averaging 12.2 points per game, he has proven to be a necessary scoring threat for Indy.
Hartenstein isn’t merely a scorer, though he often controls the boards as he does the scoreboard. He’s really grabbing the boards too, averaging an impressive 10.7 rebounds per game. He’s a willing passer who actively facilitates for his teammates, averaging 3.4 assists per game. This incredible stat is a testament to his versatility and dynamic playmaking ability on the hardwood. In addition to that, Hartenstein has a jaw-dropping true shooting percentage of 67.1%, which showcases his efficiency and effectiveness in scoring situations.
The injury comes at a particularly bad time. The Thunder will be primed and ready to extend the momentum they established with a hot start to 2023. Regardless, the team is going to have to shuffle both their strategies and lineup while Hartenstein is out. His absence will be immensely felt on offense and defense. He is an important piece to the team’s chemistry.
With this disappointing development, the Thunder will still stay positive and focused on Hartenstein’s long-term recovery, raising hopes that he can be back in action soon. His contributions have been instrumental, and fans are all excited to see him back on the court soon.
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