Isaiah Hartenstein is returning to Madison Square Garden, but this time, he’ll be wearing the Oklahoma City Thunder jersey. After spending two seasons with the New York Knicks, Hartenstein has become familiar with the unique energy of MSG and the passionate Knicks fans. Ahead of the highly anticipated game between the Thunder and Knicks, Hartenstein shared some thoughts on his time with the team and what it’s like coming back to the place that played such a big role in his career.

Reflecting on his time with the Knicks, Hartenstein recently spoke about the electric atmosphere of MSG, particularly during last season’s playoff run. Talking to Ian Begley, he said, “It was crazy, when everything happened, like even before, my first playoff game in the Madison Square Garden, that was like the first time…you feel energy. Like, that was the first time I came in an arena. You could feel the energy of the crowd. So the floor is definitely shaking.”

The Knicks fan base is known for its intensity, and Hartenstein admitted it wasn’t always love at first sight. He recalled how the crowd’s tough love during his early days in New York motivated him to grow as a player. “Even at the beginning when it was more hate than love, I appreciated that. That helped me take another step,” he shared. Now with the Thunder, Hartenstein is looking forward to hearing “some cheers and boos“—as he returns to MSG for the first time since his trade. But, at the same time, he also appreciated Knicks.

Isaiah Hartenstein’s appreciation for Knicks

The Knicks and Thunder are meeting for the second time this season, following OKC’s 117-107 win on January 3. However, this game adds another layer of emotion as Hartenstein faces his former team the Thunder. He was a key player in the Knicks’ playoff success and had a major impact during his time there. So, when he takes the floor, it won’t just be a regular game—it’ll be homecoming.

Since joining the Thunder, Hartenstein has made a smooth transition, becoming an integral part of a young, rising team. His experience in high-pressure environments has been invaluable to Oklahoma City. He’s acknowledged the Knicks’ strong roster moves after his departure. “I think they did a good job of finding the right pieces,” he said, praising the team’s ability to stay competitive.

For Hartenstein, this game is more than just another stop on the Thunder’s road trip. It’s a chance to reflect on his journey, revisit the place where he grew as a player, and take on the team he once called his own. With MSG’s energy unmatched, fans can expect an exciting performance from both sides in this highly anticipated game.