Rumor: NBA execs view Thunder as popular destination for Isaiah Hartenstein

The New York Knicks made a blockbuster deal with the Brooklyn Nets when they shipped an attractive package of draft capital for Mikal Bridges.

The deal immediately makes the Knicks a serious contender next season — especially if they also keep OG Anunoby. A ripple effect of that trade might be the departure of impending free agent Isaiah Hartenstein.

The 26-year-old was likely already out of New York’s price range. Acquiring Bridges might’ve shut the door. He’s expected to have a hefty payday this offseason. He was awesome for the Knicks and slid into their starting lineup when Mitchell Robinson was out.

In 75 games last season, Hartenstein averaged 7.8 points on 64.4% shooting, 8.3 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 1.2 steals and 1.1 blocks. He was a starter for the Knicks in their playoff run.

If Hartenstein leaves, one possibility is the Oklahoma City Thunder. The youngest first seed in league history has been thought of as a perfect fit for the seven-footer.

He’d be a great backup center who could help on the boards and size. The Thunder lacked a traditional backup big on their roster last season. Hartenstein immediately fixes that hole.

According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Thunder are seen as one of the two more popular choices on who could land Hartenstein. OKC could offer the veteran a lofty, two-year deal considering they have over $30 million in cap space to spend this summer.

A short-term deal is a seamless slide for the Thunder’s payroll as the inevitable extensions of Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams won’t kick in until the 2026-27 season.

“Orlando and Oklahoma City continue to be teams cited most often by rival executives when forecasting Hartenstein’s likely suitors in free agency.

Let’s see, though, who the Thunder select at No. 12. Just thinking out loud: That is Zach Edey’s range … right?”

Adding Alex Caruso was a clear signal that the Thunder are ready to make win-now moves. They smashed open a championship window last season and have plenty of runway with this core.