OKLAHOMA CITY — The Thunder will be without starting center Isaiah Hartenstein for approximately 10 to 14 days after he was diagnosed with a right soleus strain, the team announced.
Hartenstein, 26, missed Friday’s win over the Phoenix Suns because of ankle soreness. Further evaluation revealed the calf injury that will now keep him off the floor.
Before the setback, the 7-footer had appeared in all 19 games for Oklahoma City, averaging 12.2 points, 10.7 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 1.3 steals while shooting 67 percent from the field. The Thunder own the NBA’s best record at 19-1 but have yet to field a fully healthy roster this season.
Chet Holmgren moved into the starting center spot against Phoenix, and head coach Mark Daigneault used a smaller lineup overall. Jaylin Williams logged 21 minutes off the bench and is expected to absorb additional minutes until Hartenstein returns.
Oklahoma City is already dealing with injuries to Jalen Williams, Luguentz Dort, Alex Caruso, Kenrich Williams, Isaiah Joe and Aaron Wiggins. Jalen Williams made his season debut in Friday’s contest.
Hartenstein missed five games last season with a left soleus strain while playing for a different team. He signed with the Thunder in the summer of 2024, and his contract includes a $28.5 million team option for 2025-26.
Source: Hoops Wire
