Thunder need Isaiah Hartenstein to do more than clean up the glass

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander can create plenty of offense. The Thunder’s growing injury list makes it increasingly important that he doesn’t have to create all of it.

That’s where Isaiah Hartenstein comes in.

The veteran center’s passing and ability to operate in the middle of the floor could become more valuable as Oklahoma City adjusts without Jalen Williams and Cason Wallace, as Ivan White of Thunder On SI writes.

Hartenstein doesn’t need a play called for him to help produce a basket. A screen, a catch near the foul line and a quick pass can give somebody else an easier opportunity.

With Williams unavailable through the regular season and Wallace sidelined indefinitely, those possessions carry more weight. Oklahoma City has lost scoring, ball-handling and perimeter defense. Asking Gilgeous-Alexander to cover every gap would be a considerable assignment, even for a two-time MVP.

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Chet Holmgren’s absence adds another immediate concern. He is out for Wednesday’s game at Dallas with patellar tendinitis, leaving Hartenstein with more responsibility around the basket.

The Thunder entered that matchup 4-0, so there’s already evidence they can keep winning while adjusting. Maintaining it will require contributions beyond another big scoring night from their best player.

Hartenstein’s rebounding remains essential. But helping teammates get organized, finding cutters and finishing opportunities himself can ease some of the offensive burden.

Oklahoma City doesn’t need him to become a different player. It needs more possessions that take advantage of what he already does well.