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Knicks’ RJ Barrett gives Isaiah Hartenstein credit he deserves after critical win

By Jordanna Clark

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MARCH 27: Isaiah Hartenstein #55 of the New York Knicks looks on during the first half against the Houston Rockets at Madison Square Garden on March 27, 2023 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MARCH 27: Isaiah Hartenstein #55 of the New York Knicks looks on during the first half against the Houston Rockets at Madison Square Garden on March 27, 2023 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /
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If it wasn’t for Isaiah Hartenstein, the New York Knicks would’ve been heading to Miami for Games 3 and 4 down 0-2. The backup center’s effort and hustle are what kept the Knicks in an otherwise ugly game down the stretch.

Mitchell Robinson picked up two quick fouls early in the first quarter, which caused Tom Thibodeau to turn to Hartenstein. The former Clipper found himself in foul trouble as well, but his nine points, three rebounds, one block, and one steal were crucial for New York.

RJ Barrett was too. He continued his hot playoff streak with 24 points (8-of-17 from the field, 5-of-9 from three), three rebounds, and three assists. After the game, though, Barrett didn’t look to credit himself but instead highlighted Hartenstein’s play, which has been great throughout the playoffs thus far.

RJ Barrett credits Isaiah Hartenstein as Knicks’ turning point in Game 2 win

Isaiah Hartenstein’s efforts on the glass created extra possessions for the Knicks down the stretch. With Mitchell Robinson on the bench and Jericho Sims done for the season after undergoing shoulder surgery last week, the spotlight was on Hartenstein and he delivered.

Knicks fans had a love-hate relationship with Hartenstein in the first half of the regular season but it changed to mostly love in the second half. His midseason turnaround played a part in New York securing the No. 5 seed. There were plenty of complaints from fans about Thibodeau using Hartenstein as a traditional center and it was something that the big man struggled with, but once he got comfortable, he shined off the bench.

His role is far different than it was in Los Angeles, but he’s successfully figured out how to be a contributor on a nightly basis for New York.

If it weren’t for Hartenstein, the Knicks would be getting clowned for letting Gabe Vincent and Caleb Martin go off. It was embarrassing enough that happened in what turned out to be a win for New York, so thanks to Isaiah Hartenstein, fans got to go to sleep on Tuesday night knowing that the series is tied 1-1.

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