NBA Rumors: Knicks' Isaiah Hartenstein Eyed by Thunder on Short-Term Contract in FA

The Oklahoma City Thunder could make a run at New York Knicks center Isaiah Hartenstein, according to HoopsHype's Michael Scotto.

Scotto reported on the HoopsHype Podcast that "there's a lot of intrigue around the OKC Thunder and Hartenstein," adding the team's preference to offer only short-term deals could hinder its pursuit of the 26-year-old.

The New York Post's Stefan Bondy, who was a guest on the podcast, followed up to say there's "speculation" Oklahoma City would be prepared to put a two-year, $50 million offer on the table that allowed Hartenstein to opt out after the first year.

The Thunder are in a delicate position because they have around $35.2 million to spend this offseason, which is enough to make a notable addition or two. The franchise also has to keep its books clean, however, because it has so many young players due to hit free agency around the same time.

Josh Giddey is a restricted free agent in 2025 and the same is true for the pair of Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams in 2026. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Lu Dort will become unrestricted free agents in 2027.

In his two years with the Knicks, Hartenstein has averaged 6.3 points, 7.4 rebounds and 0.9 blocks in 22.4 minutes per game. Thanks to his rebounding ability, inside scoring, and effectiveness in the pick-and-roll, he's exactly the kind of complementary big man who fits on any playoff contender.

For the Thunder, his size is also sorely needed because Holmgren was the only regular member of the rotation taller than 6'9".

But OKC might balk if it gets locked in a bidding war for Hartenstein's services with the Knicks or any other suitors.