Former NBA center Isaiah Hartenstein recently revealed a surprising weakness in his defensive game: Robin Lopez. In a recent interview, Hartenstein admitted that he finds it extremely difficult to guard the veteran center.
Who is Isaiah Hartenstein?
Isaiah Hartenstein, a 7-foot center, has carved out a niche for himself in the NBA as a reliable defender and rebounder. Known for his high energy and defensive prowess, Hartenstein has played for several teams, including the Houston Rockets, Denver Nuggets, and now the Oklahoma City Thunder. Despite his defensive capabilities, Hartenstein’s admission about Lopez underscores the unique challenges posed by certain players.
A Tweet read,
“One guy who pisses me off, like I got love for him but I can’t guard him, that I have really trouble guarding is Robin Lopez… I’m just like coach, if Robin Lopez is in the game, it’s not going to be good.”
Isaiah Hartenstein says he can’t guard Robin Lopez:
“One guy who pisses me off, like I got love for him but I can’t guard him, that I have really trouble guarding is Robin Lopez… I’m just like coach, if Robin Lopez is in the game, it’s not going to be good.”
(via… pic.twitter.com/zIf0Vp1Vdn
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) September 23, 2024
This statement highlights the respect and frustration Hartenstein feels towards Lopez, known for his crafty post moves and signature hook shot.
The Challenge of Guarding Robin Lopez
Robin Lopez, a seasoned NBA veteran, is renowned for his old-school post play and effective hook shot. Standing at 7 feet tall, Lopez has a physical presence that can be difficult to handle. His ability to score efficiently in the post, particularly with his right-hand hook shot, makes him a tough matchup for many defenders. Hartenstein’s struggles against Lopez are a testament to the latter’s skill and experience.
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