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The Oklahoma City Thunder’s postseason run was impressive, but it also exposed their biggest needs.
For starters, the Thunder were lacking size against most of their postseason opponents, which is why adding a big man was their biggest priority entering the offseason.
Notably, they have now addressed that need in free agency.
According to a report by Shams Charania of The Athletic, they’ve signed former New York Knicks C Isaiah Hartenstein to a three-year deal worth a whopping $87 million.
BREAKING: Free agent center Isaiah Hartenstein plans to sign a three-year, $87 million deal with the Oklahoma City Thunder, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. Hartenstein departs the Knicks for an enormous contract and gives OKC a new anchor inside. pic.twitter.com/DptmkuaP3v
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 1, 2024
Hartenstein closed out the season on a high note.
He stepped up big time for Tom Thibodeau’s team, whether it was starting for the injured Mitchell Robinson or coming off the bench.
He brought plenty of energy on both sides of the glass, and even stepped up as a scorer when needed.
And while it might seem like the Thunder slightly overpaid for his services, especially considering he might not even be a starter for them, they could afford to make this deal, given their current salary cap flexibility.
Also, he should have a prominent role in the playoffs because of his ability to defend below the rim and on the perimeter as well.
The Thunder have a bright future ahead of them, and this postseason run may have done wonders for their development.
Chet Holmgren’s impact was immediate and notorious, and they also added another elite defender, Alex Caruso.
Whether they’ll be able to retain the No. 1 spot in the Western Conference remains to be seen, but this team is going to be a problem for years to come.
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