Predictions for Thunder vs. Pacers: Will Hartenstein Surpass His Points Mark?
A look into the potential performance of Isaiah Hartenstein against the Indiana Pacers in the NBA Finals, examining coaching choices and player statistics.
Will the real Isaiah Hartenstein please stand up?
The Oklahoma City Thunder center has seen a sharp decline in playing time during the NBA Finals, an unexpected twist for many. Coach Mark Daigneault made a notable shift by starting Cason Wallace in Game 1 instead of Hartenstein, and has increased Alex Caruso’s minutes off the bench.
Has this coaching decision impacted the Thunder’s series standing as they trail 2-1?
It’s noteworthy that Oklahoma City, which was a strong favorite at $7 prior to the Finals, seems to have adapted to Indiana’s playing style over the series’ initial games. Recall that Daigneault effectively utilized the Hartenstein and Chet Holmgren pairing to secure 68 wins and the top seed in the NBA Playoffs.
Something’s got to change.
Sportsbooks are currently observing the Thunder’s rotation adjustments, and significant changes to Hartenstein’s betting props have already occurred. It feels like these adjustments have swung too far.
Isaiah Hartenstein’s Game 5 Point Props:
- O 5.5 -130 — BetRivers
- O 5.5 -138 — FanDuel
- O 6.5 +100 — DraftKings
- O 6.5 +105 — Caesars
- O 6.5 +110 — BetMGM
This is a player who averaged 11.5 points per game during the regular season and was generally seen in the O/U 8.5 range at the start of the playoffs.
He’s not sidelined by injury, either.
“We have one of the best coaches in the league, and we trust whatever choices he makes,” Hartenstein mentioned in a recent press engagement. “With a winning team, if you want to win a championship, there’s going to be sacrifices. That’s what I’m ready to do.”
While I appreciate that sentiment, it’s apparent that Hartenstein is eager to re-establish his role in the game. I am optimistic about a talented player finding his rhythm again. His shooting finesse and positioning near the basket could be exactly what the Thunder need as they strive to even the series.
Let’s anticipate Hartenstein scoring a solid seven points in Game 4.
PICK: Hartenstein (+110) Over 6.5 points in Game 4
Sam Panayotovich is a sports betting analyst for FOX Sports and the BetMGM Network. He previously worked for WGN Radio, NBC Sports, and VSiN. Follow him on Twitter @spshoot.
