Knicks' Isaiah Hartenstein is the best backup big man in the NBA

There are many commendable moves that have contributed to the team's roster and culture in the past three years, such as committing to Julius Randle and acquiring Jalen Brunson in free agency. However, perhaps not enough recognition has been given to the smaller deals that have helped bind the team together, like the signing of Isaiah Hartenstein in 2022.

After an unsuccessful season with Nerlens Noel and Taj Gibson as backup centers, the Knicks signed Hartenstein to a two-year, $16 million contract. He has more than proven his worth during this time, arguably showcasing some of the finest performance by a reserve big man in the league. 

Hartenstein's tenure with the Knicks began unsteadily, as he struggled to adapt to the offensive system and appeared hesitant around the rim on both ends of the court. However, it didn't take long for him to understand how he could thrive under Tom Thibodeau's coaching style: by embracing the less glamorous aspects of the game.

He fully embraced his role as a rim protector and rebounder, which are crucial attributes for Thibodeau's centers, and it transformed him into a dominant player. Last season, Hartenstein ranked sixth in offensive rebounding rate and contributed an average of nine points and 11.9 rebounds per 36 minutes, shooting at an impressive 53.5 percent.

The Knicks experienced a seamless transition whenever Hartenstein substituted for Mitchell Robinson, even on the defensive end. With Robinson on the court, opponents scored an average of 112.6 points per 100 possessions, while with Hartenstein, they were held to 110.2 points.

This season, Hartenstein has continued to shine. He aggressively attacks the offensive glass, currently ranking third in the league with a 15.4 percent offensive rebounding rate. 

Hartenstein's presence on the court has significantly improved the Knicks' defense. While playing alongside Hartenstein, the team allows an average of 104.5 points per 100 possessions, compared to Robinson's 110.4. While this could be attributed to the players they share the court with, it still highlights the consistent performance between the two centers.

Hartenstein has proven to be reliable whenever Robinson has struggled or faced foul trouble. In the home opener against Boston, Hartenstein played for 25 minutes and achieved a 3-for-4 shooting with eight rebounds, despite the team's unsuccessful outcome.

A standout moment this season was his impactful contribution to the Knicks' impressive 21-point comeback victory over the Miami Heat. His incredible chasedown block during a transition play shifted the momentum in favor of the Knicks, and he also successfully defended Bam Adebayo throughout the rest of the game. His stellar performance was a significant factor in the Knicks' notable win of the year. 

He has become more comfortable fitting into the team's offensive system, using his passing skills to find open teammates both in transition and in halfcourt sets. His chemistry with Josh Hart and Donte DiVincenzo, two of the team's best off-ball movers, continues to grow.

Despite not having the same individual talent as some other backup big men like Bobby Portis or Onyeka Okongwu, Hartenstein's willingness to accept his role and perform within it makes him just as impactful, if not more so. The fact that the Knicks can rely on either of their centers to anchor their defense and outwork their opponents is a significant advantage, which has been evident since the surprising playoff run in 2021.

New York will aim to maintain this advantage and will need to re-sign Hartenstein this offseason to do so. His current contract expires this season, making him an unrestricted free agent, and there may be enough interest from other teams for the Knicks to step back from a potential bidding fight. 

There are potential teams that can potentially offer Hartenstein the starting role and salary that the Knicks are unable to match. If such teams do not exist, New York may have a better chance to retain him.

Regardless of the outcome, fans should appreciate Hartenstein's performance while he is in New York. Regardless of who gets the most attention, this team would not be as successful without him.

According to SNY.