Isaiah Hartenstein’s increased role in Game 2 of the Western Conference Finals proved decisive for the Oklahoma City Thunder as they tied the series 1-1 against the San Antonio Spurs. Despite Victor Wembanyama still posting impressive numbers, Hartenstein’s physicality and effort made a difference. His contributions extended beyond the box score, impacting the game in ways that statistics alone cannot fully capture.
Hartenstein’s Defensive Assignment on Wembanyama
Hartenstein played 27 minutes in Game 2, a significant increase from his 12 minutes in Game 1. He was assigned to guard Spurs star Victor Wembanyama. The Thunder aimed to wear down Wembanyama by forcing him to work hard. Hartenstein logged the most minutes defending Wembanyama.
While Wembanyama recorded 21 points, 17 rebounds, six assists, and four blocks, he also committed four turnovers. San Antonio’s 21 turnovers led to 27 Thunder points. Wembanyama’s paint points decreased from 26 in Game 1 to 10 in Game 2.
Offensive Contributions and Physicality
Hartenstein contributed 10 points and 13 rebounds, including eight offensive rebounds. He also had three assists. Alex Caruso noted Hartenstein’s physicality. Caruso said Hartenstein made Wembanyama work all game.
Caruso said this ended up being beneficial for him on the glass late in the game. He cleaned that up offensively and defensively for us – a couple of possessions in a row that were really big. Caruso said that Hartenstein was just making it kind of trench warfare and putting his will on the line to go get the job done.
Coach Daigneault’s Confidence in Hartenstein
Thunder coach Mark Daigneault admitted he didn’t feel good playing Hartenstein only 12 minutes in Game 1. Daigneault spoke with Hartenstein at practice. Daigneault told him to be ready and that his number would be called more.
Daigneault said Hartenstein did what he does. Daigneault said he doesn’t think it was specific to Wembanyama, and that Hartenstein played his game. Daigneault highlighted Hartenstein’s physical brand around the basket and his offensive rebounding. Daigneault praised Hartenstein’s professionalism.
Thunder’s Ethos and Looking Ahead
- Hartenstein had 10 points.
- He also had 13 rebounds.
- He recorded three assists.
The Thunder want to wear down Wembanyama with their size and strength by forcing him to play heavy minutes. That professionalism fits into the Thunder ethos.