Thunder's Isaiah Hartenstein Sidelined with Injury as Team Prepares for Cavaliers

The Oklahoma City Thunder face a key matchup against the Cavaliers without Isaiah Hartenstein, while Chet Holmgren nears a return from injury.

Isaiah Hartenstein suffered a left soleus strain during Tuesday's game against the 76ers and will be re-evaluated in a week, leaving him unavailable for the Thunder's matchup with the Cavaliers.
Hartenstein has been a vital contributor this season, averaging career highs in points, rebounds, assists, and blocks while anchoring the Thunder's interior defense.
Chet Holmgren, who has been sidelined since November with a fractured pelvis, has begun light basketball activities, but his return date remains uncertain.
The Thunder, currently 33-6, lead the Western Conference and are known for their defensive dominance, allowing the fewest points per 100 possessions in the league.
Oklahoma City faces a significant challenge against the 34-5 Cavaliers, the only team with a better record, as they contend with the absence of both of their 7-footers.