Isaiah Hartenstein’s Stellar Rise: From Draft Snub to Knicks’ Key Player
The Unexpected Journey of Isaiah Hartenstein
Isaiah Hartenstein, the New York Knicks center, has turned his career around, transforming from a second-round draft pick into one of the most coveted free-agent centers in the NBA. Hartenstein’s journey to success has been anything but straightforward. Projected to be selected between the 15th and 35th spots in the 2017 NBA Draft, Hartenstein’s draft night took an unexpected turn. The Brooklyn Nets, after having him work out and undergo a physical, reportedly “red-flagged” him for a non-existent knee injury. This misinformation caused Hartenstein to fall to the 43rd pick, selected by the Houston Rockets, significantly affecting his initial earnings and career trajectory.
After a stint with the Rockets and an impactful season with the Los Angeles Clippers, Hartenstein signed a two-year, $16 million deal with the Knicks. Under the guidance of Coach Tom Thibodeau, he has not only improved defensively but has also showcased his skills as a passer, a talent he attributes to the influence of Nikola Jokic. Now, as an unrestricted free agent, Hartenstein is poised for a substantial pay raise, with projections estimating around $13 million a year.
The Impact of Being “Red-Flagged”
The decision by the Nets to “red-flag” Hartenstein had immediate and long-term effects on his career. Initially, it meant falling to the second round of the draft, which translated to a significantly lower starting salary and less financial security compared to first-round picks. Hartenstein spent his first season playing in the G-League, earning less than $1 million annually through his first four NBA seasons. However, Hartenstein’s resilience and dedication to improving his game have paid off, as evidenced by his performance with the Knicks and the Clippers before that.
A Bright Future with the Knicks
Despite the rocky start to his NBA career, Hartenstein’s future looks bright. His performance with the Knicks has made him an essential part of the team’s success, and his upcoming free agency presents an opportunity for a well-deserved pay raise. While the Knicks are limited in what they can offer due to salary cap constraints, Hartenstein’s early Bird Rights allow for a starting salary in the $16 million range, aligning with projections. His journey from being overlooked in the draft to becoming a key player for the Knicks is a testament to his talent, work ethic, and resilience.
Hartenstein’s story raises questions about the draft process and the impact of misinformation on players’ careers. As he looks forward to potentially re-signing with the Knicks or exploring other opportunities, Hartenstein’s journey serves as an inspiring example of overcoming adversity and making the most of one’s circumstances. What will the future hold for this rising NBA star?