After losing their star young center, finally, there is some amazing news for the OKC Thunder fans. Their beloved, 7-foot-1, Chet Holmgren got injured against the Golden State Warriors earlier this month, and since then OKC has been in a tight spot. But all their troubles seem to be over as Isaiah Hartenstein is going to make his debut against the Portland Trail Blazers. He missed the first 15 games this season!

So, OKC typically relies on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams to carry the load, but their bench’s lack of offensive support could become a serious issue. If this trend continues, it’ll be tough for them to compete against top-tier teams. They will need more contributions if they hope to stay competitive. And it’s clear the starters can’t do it all on their own, so the bench needs to step up.

OKC’s struggle to control the boards has become a trend. They are currently giving up the most offensive rebounds in the league (13.3) while also tied for the highest opponent second-chance points (17.2). This weakness could prove costly in games against stronger teams, where those extra possessions make a big difference. Their rebound troubles can be solved with Isaiah Hartenstein coming in.

Fans are beyond happy as the OKC won’t rely on small-ball

Fans cannot control their excitement and have flooded X, expressing their joy. One user wrote, “We coming back? *side eye*”. The Thunder (11-4) are facing a tough patch, having dropped two games in a row for the first time this season. With both Chet Holmgren (out with a right iliac wing fracture) and Jaylin Williams (sidelined by a right hamstring strain), the team’s depth at center has taken a hit. With Isaiah Hartenstein, they could really get back to winning ways.

Another netizen was elated by this development, they wrote “Dreams really do come true“. The Thunder has faced some ups and downs after Chet Holmgren’s hip fracture sidelined him for six games. The team has lacked a true center, and it’s clear that this has affected their performance. Finally, their star signing can prove his mettle for the team. Isaiah Hartenstein’s one of the best passing big men in the league. And the $87 million hoopster has the potential to improve both ends of the Thunder.

The OKC lost yesterday to the San Antonio Spurs by 6 points. Which was a surprise, as OKC was the heavy favorite. One user wrote, “iHart was needed last night.” SGA and Williams had stepped up, igniting a comeback and keeping the game competitive. Together, they carried the load, refusing to let OKC fall behind. But they needed Hartenstein to help them with offense and win some rebounds.

After yesterday’s loss, one fan had lost hope. They tweeted, “We are so back. (It was so over 24 hours ago)”. The Oklahoma City bench has struggled to contribute lately, and the numbers reflect their misery. In the most recent Spurs game, the bench shot a dreadful 6-of-24, contributing just 15 points and committing four turnovers. It’s been clear over the past few losses that the reserves aren’t stepping up like they need to. And Isaiah Hartenstein provides hope, as he preps for his debut.

Another user wrote “Lesgoooo *bicep* *bicep* *bicep*“. After a standout 2023/24 season with the New York Knicks, where Isaiah Hartenstein averaged 7.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks, this player showcased he can contribute significantly on both ends of the floor. Now the hoopster needs to replicate good performances for OKC and help them keep up their 57-25 record from last season.