TITLE: Hartenstein’s 33-Point Outburst Leads Thunder; Edwards Shines, Hardy Pushes Jazz, Markkanen Stays Hot
SLUG: hartenstein-33-points-edwards-return-hardy-jazz-markkanen
CONTENT:
Oklahoma City, OK — Center Isaiah Hartenstein delivered a career-high 33 points, 19 rebounds and three blocks in the Thunder’s victory over Sacramento on Friday, sparking praise from teammates and coaches.
“He was on one today,” guard Ajay Mitchell told The Oklahoman. “Hart is a great player. We were able to find him, and he made it very easy for us.”
Head coach Mark Daigneault credited the 26-year-old’s growing comfort inside Oklahoma City’s system. “He was highly impactful at the beginning, but he’s only gotten better, especially on the offensive side,” Daigneault said. Hartenstein is averaging a double-double for a Thunder roster coping with multiple injuries.
Edwards Drops 37 in Return
Minneapolis, MN — Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards poured in 37 points in a 40-point rout of Utah, his second game back after missing four contests with a right hamstring strain. “He’s our leading light, and he’s got to be himself,” head coach Chris Finch told The Athletic. “I thought he played quick and clean.”
Hardy’s Vocal Approach
Salt Lake City, UT — Jazz head coach Will Hardy said his animated sideline demeanor this season is deliberate as his 3-6 club tries to develop urgency. “There is a real process right now of trying to have all of our players, especially our young players, understand that every time you take the court, you’re trying to win,” Hardy told the Salt Lake Tribune. “I feel like I need to give the team the urgency every single night to not let moments pass them by.”
Markkanen’s Versatility
Forward Lauri Markkanen managed just 12 points in 21 minutes Friday, yet he is still averaging 28.3 points per game—well above his previous career best. Hardy praised the 7-footer’s adaptable game to Sports Illustrated: “He can truly play any style… He doesn’t really dictate your style. Lauri gives us a lot of flexibility.”
The Thunder, Timberwolves and Jazz resume play next week as the Northwest Division race begins to tighten.
Source: Hoops Rumors
