"He's dead to us" - Josh Hart jests about hating Isiah Hartenstein for signing $87 million deal with Thunder
Aside from being a key contributor for the New York Knicks, Josh Hart is known to have some fun on social media. The veteran forward has kept his antics going following his team's loss in free agency.
Earlier this week, Isaiah Hartenstein opted to leave the Knicks and head back to the Western Conference. He inked a multi-year deal with the OKC Thunder worth $87 million.
On his "Roommates" show with Jalen Brunson, Hart was asked about Hartenstein departing in free agency. He kept his response simple, saying that his former teammate is dead to them.
"He's dead to us," Hart said.
Hart doesn't literally mean so and is likely trying to have some fun with the situation. He was there for most of Hartenstein's tenure with the Knicks, having come over midway through the 2023 season via trade.
Despite losing one of their key contributors, Hart and the Knicks are in a good position. Along with extending OG Anunoby, they pulled off a massive deal with the Brooklyn Nets to acquire Mikal Bridges.
Josh Hart continues to poke fun at Isaiah Hartenstein for leaving the Knicks
This is not the first time Josh Hart has reacted to Isaiah Hartenstein deciding not to re-sign with the New York Knicks. He went to social media when the news first came official.
Hart re-posted a post on X of Hartenstein's signing, once again saying that Hartenstein is dead to him. The Knicks star also said that he never actually liked him during their time as teammates.
Josh Hart wrapped things up on a more heartfelt note, congratulating Hartenstein on securing a big contract.
"You are dead to me Zay. I never liked you anyways. But congrats on the bag!"
Seeing that his new contract has quadrupled his career earnings, Josh Hart understands why Hartenstein signed with the Thunder. Apart from the payday, he also has a chance to play a key role on a contending-level team.
Heading into the offseason, the center position was a key area of need for the Thunder. With the acquisition of Hartenstein, OKC has an answer for when they go up against bigger and more physical teams. It's unknown what his role will be yet, but the veteran big man could be a starter alongside Chet Holmgren.
While he isn't a star big man, Hartenstein proved how impactful he could be in the right role. As a starter for the Knicks last season, he averaged 8.7 points, 9.4 rebounds and 3.1 assists on 66.3% shooting.
Now with the Thunder, Hartenstein has an opportunity to play alongside an MVP-caliber player in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.