The Knicks made a savvy move when they signed center Isaiah Hartenstein to a bargain deal two years ago, securing him on a modest two-year, $16 million contract. Hartenstein capitalized on opportunities due to Mitchell Robinson’s injuries, appearing in 157 games with 57 starts over the 2022-23 and 2023-24 seasons and often outperforming Robinson when both were healthy.
However, the NBA’s rules pose a challenge for the Knicks this summer. They can re-sign Hartenstein, but they’re limited to offering a maximum four-year, $72 million contract ($18 million per year). In contrast, other teams like the Thunder or Pistons could propose significantly more lucrative short-term deals, possibly reaching two years and $50 million, according to ESPN’s Bobby Marks.
Hartenstein, who has proven himself worthy of a substantial new contract, struggled initially in the NBA after being drafted by the Rockets in 2017 but found stability with the Clippers before excelling in New York. Despite his achievements, tripling his salary might be excessive for the Knicks, considering they already have Robinson in a similar role. While Hartenstein values his comfortable situation with the Knicks, where he enjoys significant playing time and a vibrant home court atmosphere at Madison Square Garden, he acknowledges that comfort and team success are crucial factors in his decision-making process.