How long will Isaiah Hartenstein be out? Hand injury schedule, return date, latest updates on Thunder Center

One of the Thunder’s biggest offseason acquisitions will not be available at the start of the new season.

Isaiah Hartenstein, who signed with Oklahoma City as a free agent in the offseason, will be sidelined for the start of the new season as he recovers from a hand injury sustained in the preseason. The injury wasn’t considered particularly serious, but it’s a blow to a Thunder team looking to build chemistry from the start of the season.

What injury does Hartenstein have and how long will he be out? Here’s what you should know about the center’s setback.

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What is Isaiah Hartenstein’s injury?

Hartenstein suffered a “small, non-displaced fracture in his left hand,” the Thunder announced on Oct. 17. The injury occurred during a preseason game but did not require surgery.

Last season, Hartenstein averaged 7.8 points, 8.3 rebounds and 2.5 assists in 75 regular season games with the Knicks. He improved even further in the playoffs and became one of the biggest names in free agency.

Hartenstein signed a three-year, $87 million contract with the Thunder in the offseason. He is considered a figure who will influence the race to win the Western Conference in 2025.

POSITIONAL RANKING: PG | SG | SF | PF | C

How long will Isaiah Hartenstein be out?

Hartenstein will be re-examined five to six weeks after the injury. Based on this schedule, Hartenstein will remain out until at least November 21st.

The Thunder will play 16 games through Nov. 20, meaning Hartenstein is expected to miss about the first 20 percent of the season.

Thunder schedule 2024-25

After the season opener in Denver, the Thunder travel to Chicago before playing their home opener against the Hawks for the second night in a row.