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Thunder’s Mark Daigneault breaks down why he loves Isaiah Hartenstein
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- Thunder’s Mark Daigneault breaks down why he loves Isaiah Hartenstein
Thunder’s Mark Daigneault breaks down why he loves Isaiah Hartenstein appeared first on ClutchPoints . Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here .
After only playing Isaiah Hartenstein for 12 minutes in Game 1, the Oklahoma City Thunder had to turn to their traditional center in a major way in Game 2, scoring 10 points in 27 minutes of action while working the boards and playing physical defense against the San Antonio Spurs.
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Discussing what Hartenstein brings to the Thunder and how his efforts played into a Game 2 win, head coach Mark Daigneault toasted his big man for his play but also for his mindset, as it’s a big reason why he’s such a great fit on the team.
“(Hartenstein) is a big-time team guy. Rather than assist and score a point, he understands the intricacies of the game, especially on defense. He brings great physicality on both ends of the floor, especially on the glass. He’s a great rebounder, great screen setter,” Daigneault said.
“If you listed all the skills you wanted for a modern center, a true center, he checks every box. That’s why I love him. The other thing I love about him is that I played him 12 minutes. He doesn’t bat an eye and turns around tonight and plays a great game.”
Initially signed away from the New York Knicks after two years with the team, some wondered how Hartenstein would fit alongside Chet Holmgren as a more traditional center. So far, he has more than justified his three-year, $87 million contract by giving the Thunder everything they need on any given night, be that 27 minutes, 12 minutes, or another number in between the two this postseason run.
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