Oklahoma City, January 25, 2026
The Oklahoma City Thunder are experiencing a significant decline in performance following the absence of starting center Isaiah Hartenstein due to a right soleus strain. With crucial games slipping away, including a close loss to the Indiana Pacers, the team is adjusting its lineup and roles to compensate. Chet Holmgren has stepped into the center position, while forwards Jaylin Williams and Kenrich Williams are playing enhanced roles to mitigate Hartenstein’s absence. The Thunder are hopeful for Hartenstein’s return, which could strengthen their frontcourt.
Oklahoma City
The Oklahoma City Thunder are struggling in games without their starting center Isaiah Hartenstein, who has been out since late December with a right soleus strain. The team’s performance has notably declined in areas such as rebounding and interior defense.
Impact on Team Performance
Since Hartenstein’s injury, the Thunder have lost critical matchups, including a recent game against the Indiana Pacers on January 23, 2026, where they narrowly fell 117-114. This loss sheds light on the team’s ongoing challenges in his absence.
Team Adjustments
To cope with Hartenstein’s injury, the Thunder have adjusted their lineup. Chet Holmgren has been shifted to the center position, while the roles of forwards Jaylin Williams and Kenrich Williams have been enhanced, all aimed at mitigating the impact of Hartenstein’s absence in the paint.
Background on Hartenstein’s Injury
Hartenstein suffered his injury in late December 2025, which has caused him to miss several games. The Thunder are taking a careful approach to his recovery to avoid any further complications.
Looking Ahead
The team remains optimistic about Hartenstein’s potential return, which would strengthen their frontcourt and improve their performance in upcoming games. His recovery is being monitored closely by the Thunder’s medical staff.
Recent Game Results
| Game | Date | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pacers vs. Thunder | January 23, 2026 | Indiana Pacers | Loss 117-114 |
| Thunder vs. Raptors | January 25, 2026 | Toronto Raptors | Upcoming |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Isaiah Hartenstein’s current injury status?
Isaiah Hartenstein has been sidelined since late December 2025 due to a right soleus strain.
How has the Thunder’s performance been affected by Hartenstein’s absence?
The Thunder have struggled in rebounding and interior defense without Hartenstein, as seen in their recent loss to the Indiana Pacers.
What adjustments has the Thunder made in Hartenstein’s absence?
The team has moved Chet Holmgren to the center position and increased the roles of forwards Jaylin Williams and Kenrich Williams to compensate for the loss.
When is Isaiah Hartenstein expected to return to the lineup?
The Thunder are closely monitoring Hartenstein’s recovery progress and are hopeful for his return in the near future to strengthen their frontcourt.
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