Moments after Hartenstein’s season-debut in a 109-99 Wednesday night win, Gilgeous-Alexander answered a slew of questions almost exclusively about the big man. When the Hartenstein questionnaire finished,

The season-altering injury amplified Isaiah Hartenstein's importance. He suffered a hand fracture in the preseason that cost him the first month of the regular season. His role graduated from bench player to full-time starter during his absence.

Oklahoma City Thunder center Isaiah Hartenstein's return from injury appears to be imminent. After missing the first 15 games of the season with a broken left hand, Hartenstein has been upgraded to "questionable" for Wednesday's game against the Portland Trail Blazers.