Isaiah Hartenstein Sends Clear Message Regarding Future with Thunder

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OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA - FEBRUARY 22: Isaiah Hartenstein #55 of the Oklahoma City Thunder reacts to play during the first half against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Paycom Center on February 22, 2026 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by William Purnell/Getty Images)

Isaiah Hartenstein spent the past two seasons as a major contributor for the Oklahoma City Thunder, but he faces an uncertain future with the franchise.

Hartenstein has a $28.5 million team option in his contract for next season that the Thunder could opt to turn down in order to open up some cap space. This leaves Hartenstein in limbo for the time being until he finds out what the Thunder plan to do.

Isaiah Hartenstein ‘Loves’ Thunder, Hopes to Remain with Team

While Hartenstein doesn’t know what the future holds for him in Oklahoma City, he made his affinity for the organization clear, and he certainly sounds like a guy who would like to continue his career with the Thunder, if given the opportunity.

“I love being here. I love the organization, but it’s a lot in their hands,” Hartenstein said. “I think that them and my agent will talk. It’s a business at the end of the day. But whatever happens, I’m truly grateful.”

The Thunder have until June 29 to make a final decision on Hartenstein’s team option for next season. Even if they were to decline it, that wouldn’t necessarily signify the end of Hartenstein’s tenure with the team, as he could always agree to a new deal with the Thunder in free agency.

Lu Dort is in the Same Position as Isaiah Hartenstein with Thunder

Hartenstein isn’t the only key contributor on the Thunder with a team option for next season. Lu Dort is in the same boat, and he feels the same way as Hartenstein when it comes to continuing his career in Oklahoma City.

“That’s a conversation that’s going to happen. It hasn’t happened yet, obviously, we just lost last night. But I have a lot of trust in this organization. I’m really grateful for all the stuff that [Thunder GM Sam Presti] did for me to this point, and obviously, I want to stay here,” Dort said.

“This organization and this city really shaped me as a person and as a player, so the conversation is going to happen. Obviously, I want to stay here. This is like a home to me.”

It will be interesting to see what the Thunder decide to do with both of these guys.