Vince Carter says New York Knicks may be regretting letting ‘so valuable’ star leave, ‘he can hustle’

This big trade was not the only piece of business from the Knicks. They allowed Isaiah Hartenstein to depart as a free agent, who signed with the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Following an injury-delayed start to the 2024-25 season, Hartenstein has come in and is making a big impact for OKC.

Vince Carter on Isaiah Hartenstein

NBA legend Vince Carter believes the New York Knicks will be looking at Isaiah Hartenstein’s performances for OKC with regret.

Speaking on his podcast, Carter explained: “He is so valuable, I personally think the Knicks are looking back like ‘man’ he’s a guy they shouldn’t have let go.

“Obviously they had reasons but I feel he would have been a great compliment to KAT with the Knicks.”

Carter explained further: “You don’t have to run plays for him but that guy plays hard, he defends any big that you want, he’s a decent defender against guards, he’s a decent defender in the pick-and-roll, he can hustle, he can play hard, he can get you extra possessions.

“Being able to offensive rebound for kick-out threes falls right in line with what you want, he does that for the OKC Thunder just like he did for the Knicks. I think he’s a great pick-up for OKC.”

Isaiah Hartenstein puts up big numbers

Isaiah Hartenstein has only played six games for the Thunder to date, but he is playing a big role for the Western Conference leaders.

Hartenstein is averaging 13.3 ppg, the best of his career. Likewise he rebounds. He is averaging 12.3 rebounds per game, more than the 8.3 on the Knicks, and his 4.2 assists per game are also a career high average.

The only regret for OKC is that they have so far been unable to play him alongside Chet Holmgren, who is currently out with an injury.

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