The Oklahoma City Thunder are facing a pivotal moment as they emerge from the All-Star Break. With championship aspirations in sight, their immediate focus is on getting key players back to full health. The absence of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Ajay Mitchell for at least another week adds a layer of complexity to their mission.
Before the break, the Thunder posted a 5-5 record over their last ten games, a dip from their stellar start to the season. Now, with 26 games remaining, they need to regain momentum to maintain their hold on the top seed. But it's not just the team that has a lot at stake-three players, in particular, are fighting to secure their future with the Thunder.
Key Players Under the Microscope
Isaiah Hartenstein
Hartenstein’s role with the Thunder is undeniable. His absence from late December to late January was felt in the team’s rebounding and interior play. When he's on the court, the Thunder have been 0.8 points per 100 possessions better, underscoring his value beyond just numbers.
The partnership between Hartenstein and Chet Holmgren in the frontcourt has been a cornerstone of their strategy, using physicality to dominate opponents. However, with looming financial constraints due to upcoming extensions for Jalen Williams and Holmgren, Hartenstein's future in Oklahoma City is uncertain. He needs to prove his indispensability to avoid becoming a financial casualty.
Lu Dort
Dort's journey this season has been less than stellar compared to his breakout 2024-25 season. Averaging 8.7 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.2 assists, while shooting 35% from three, Dort has been a steady presence but hasn't matched his previous impact.
Despite being a consistent starter, the Thunder have Cason Wallace waiting in the wings, making Dort's position less secure. His $18 million team option is more manageable than Hartenstein's $28 million, but Dort must elevate his performance in the remaining games to justify an extension.
Brooks Barnhizer
Barnhizer's situation is more subtle but equally critical. In his rookie season, he's averaged 1.6 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 0.6 assists over 29 games, playing just 7.6 minutes per game. On a team as deep as the Thunder, breaking into the rotation is no small feat.
With up to four potential picks in the upcoming draft, the Thunder might allocate a two-way contract to a new draftee. Barnhizer must seize any opportunity in the final stretch to solidify his place on the roster.
As the Thunder navigate these challenges, the focus remains on health, performance, and strategic decisions that could shape the future of the franchise. It's a critical juncture, and how these players respond could define their careers and the Thunder's trajectory moving forward.