Since moving to Oklahoma City in 2008, the Oklahoma City Thunder have traditionally avoided using free agency to significantly enhance their roster, relying instead on the draft and trades. This approach changed this offseason when the Thunder made their biggest free agent signing ever by acquiring Isaiah Hartenstein, the top free agent center on the market.
As reported by ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, Oklahoma City is signing the 7-footer to a three-year, $87 million deal. The contract, according to Stefan Bondy of The New York Post, is front-loaded with the third season being non-guaranteed. Hartenstein will earn over $30 million in the first season, with the amount decreasing in subsequent years.
This significant payday for Hartenstein benefits both parties. The Thunder reward the 26-year-old for his breakout season while fitting him into their timeline, as Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren are expected to receive maximum extensions starting in the 2026-27 season. This signing allows Oklahoma City to maximize financial flexibility over the next two years without jeopardizing future extensions for their rising stars.
The Thunder’s ability to offer Hartenstein such a substantial deal, persuading him away from the New York Knicks, was largely due to the Gordon Hayward trade at the recent trade deadline. Hayward’s expiring contract gave OKC significant cap space in free agency, showcasing Thunder GM Sam Presti’s strategic planning for the future.
