Since he signed his massive three-year deal, many have wondered what Isaiah Hartenstein's role will exactly be on the Oklahoma City Thunder. Does the 26-year-old slide into the vacant starting lineup?

Since Chet Holmgren’s Feb. 7 return, the Thunder — the NBA’s No. 1 ranked defense by a safe margin this season — has been the 10th most efficient defense.

With one-third of the season left, the Oklahoma City Thunder have a rare opportunity afforded to them thanks to their indestructible first-place lead — figuring out the Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein lineup before the playoffs arrive.

Holmgren was out for the team's latest contest against the San Antonio Spurs, though he's set to return on the second night of the back-to-back. The last time Holmgren and Hartenstein were both active, the Thunder staggered the two more. Daigneault opted to start Holmgren and bring Hartenstein off the bench.

The Thunder's win against the Rockets marked only Chet Holmgren's eighth game since suffering a pelvic injury that forced him to miss nearly half of the 2024-25 campaign. Still, after Monday's win against the Rockets, Holmgren celebrated Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's 51-point performance as the Thunder remains atop the Western Conference standings.

Chet Holmgren is being listed as OUT with a right lower leg contusion. Aaron Wiggins (right thumb sprain) is questionable. Isaiah Joe is available.