Hartenstein Scores Career-High as Thunder Defeat Kings
Isaiah Hartenstein delivered a career-best performance with 33 points and 19 rebounds, leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 132-101 victory over the Sacramento Kings on Friday night.
Game Highlights
- The 7-foot Hartenstein shot an efficient 14 of 17 from the field, adding three assists and three blocks.
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander contributed 30 points, boosting the Thunder to a 9-1 season record.
- Cason Wallace scored 15 points, and Isaiah Joe added 13, helping Oklahoma City secure their first NBA Cup tournament win.
Impact of Key Players’ Absences
Oklahoma City dominated inside, outscoring Sacramento 60-34 in the paint, partly due to the absence of Kings’ big man Domantas Sabonis, who missed his second straight game with sore ribs.
Sabonis remained on the bench in street clothes, while Thunder’s Chet Holmgren, available this time, contributed 10 points and seven rebounds.
Notable Performances
Russell Westbrook, who spent his first nine NBA seasons with the Thunder and is the franchise’s all-time leading scorer, posted 24 points and nine assists against his former team.
The Thunder secured their second win over the Kings in 11 days, having previously won 107-101 on October 28 in Oklahoma City when Sabonis was healthy and the Thunder played without Holmgren.
Summary
Oklahoma City's strong inside presence and balanced scoring propelled them to a commanding win, reversing roles from their recent matchup with Sacramento.
Author’s takeaway: Hartenstein’s standout night and strategic use of player availability were key factors in the Thunder’s decisive victory over the Kings.