Oklahoma City Thunder center Isaiah Hartenstein has been diagnosed with a small, non-displaced fracture in his left hand. The injury occurred during the second half of Tuesday’s preseason game against the Denver Nuggets.
A tweet read,
“Isaiah Hartenstein has suffered a small, non-displaced fracture in his left hand and will be re-evaluated in 5-to-6 weeks, The Thunder have announced. The injury occurred in the second half of Tuesday’s preseason game against the Nuggets.”
Isaiah Hartenstein has suffered a small, non-displaced fracture in his left hand and will be re-evaluated in 5-to-6 weeks, The Thunder have announced.
The injury occurred in the second half of Tuesday's preseason game against the Nuggets. pic.twitter.com/8wCEhEjrbP
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) October 17, 2024
Details of the Injury
Hartenstein, who was signed to a three year, $87 million contract this summer, will be out for five to six weeks. The injury was sustained during a preseason game in Denver, and Hartenstein will undergo re-evaluation in approximately five to six weeks. This timeline means he will miss at least the first month of the regular season.
Impact on the Thunder’s Roster
Hartenstein’s absence will test the depth of the Thunder’s roster. With both Jaylin Williams and Kenrich Williams also sidelined by injuries, the team will need to rely on other players to fill the void. Ousmane Dieng, who has been active in practice, could see increased minutes in Hartenstein’s absence.
Isaiah Hartenstein’s Performance and Role
Hartenstein, who averaged 7.8 points and 8.3 rebounds per game last season with the New York Knicks, was expected to address Oklahoma City’s rebounding issues. His addition was seen as a significant move to bolster the team’s frontcourt. The Thunder will now have to wait until late November or early December to see Hartenstein back in action.
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