just in; Los Angeles Lakers vs Golden State
Isaiah Hartenstein, a standout center for the New York Knicks, has had a front-row seat to some of the NBA’s most dynamic players, but when it comes to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA), he’s quick to highlight what truly sets the Oklahoma City Thunder star apart. Hartenstein gets candid about SGA’s ability to not just perform on the court, but to elevate the game in ways that few can, drawing admiration not only from teammates but from across the league.
“Shai is just on a different level,” Hartenstein starts. “You watch him, and you immediately realize there’s something special about the way he moves on the court. It’s like he has this sixth sense of knowing exactly where to be and when to be there. It’s not just about physical talent—though he has plenty of that—it’s about his feel for the game. He’s able to control the tempo in ways that most players can only dream of.”
One of the most striking qualities Hartenstein notices in Gilgeous-Alexander is his calm and collected demeanor, especially in clutch moments. “He doesn’t get rattled,” Hartenstein explains. “Whether it’s the first quarter or the last, Shai’s focus doesn’t waver. That’s something you can’t really teach. He has a mental toughness that stands out. You see players who can be up and down emotionally throughout a game, but Shai is steady. That’s why he’s so dangerous when the game is on the line.”
Hartenstein also emphasizes the versatility of Gilgeous-Alexander’s scoring game. The guard can score in a variety of ways, from his deadly mid-range game to his ability to get to the basket. “What makes Shai so difficult to guard is that he’s not just a three-point shooter or just a slasher,” Hartenstein says. “He’s got a complete arsenal—he can break you down off the dribble, pull up from anywhere on the floor, or get to the basket and finish through contact. It’s hard to predict what he’s going to do next. That makes him unpredictable, and that’s a nightmare for defenders.”
But it’s not just his offensive game that impresses Hartenstein. He praises Gilgeous-Alexander’s IQ, particularly his decision-making. “Shai is a smart player,” Hartenstein notes. “He knows when to be aggressive and when to defer to his teammates. He understands that it’s not just about getting his shots up; it’s about getting the right shots for his team. He’s a playmaker. Whether it’s a lob, a quick dish, or a floater, he’s always looking for the best way to put his teammates in positions to succeed.”
Despite all his natural talent, Hartenstein also points out the work ethic that has allowed Gilgeous-Alexander to reach such heights. “Shai works for everything he gets,” Hartenstein says. “He puts in the time and effort behind the scenes. You can see it in the way he’s always improving. He’s constantly adding new moves to his game, refining his skills, and that’s what makes him such a consistent threat.”
The relationship between Gilgeous-Alexander and his teammates is another aspect that Hartenstein appreciates. “Off the court, he’s a great guy, too,” he shares. “He’s a leader without being vocal in a traditional way. He leads by example. His work ethic and how he approaches the game rubs off on the rest of the team. He doesn’t have to be the loudest guy in the room because his actions speak louder than words.”
What’s also fascinating, Hartenstein says, is Gilgeous-Alexander’s ability to maintain humility despite his success. “He’s got all the talent in the world, but you’d never know it from talking to him. He’s grounded. He’s humble. That speaks volumes about his character,” Hartenstein reflects. “It’s not just the way he plays the game, but the way he carries himself. That’s something that’s really rare in today’s NBA.”
Overall, Hartenstein is adamant that Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is one of the brightest young stars in the league. “The way Shai approaches the game, the way he handles pressure, and the way he continues to grow? He’s going to be a force in this league for a long time,” he says with certainty.
In the eyes of Isaiah Hartenstein, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander isn’t just another talented player—he’s a player with the total package: skill, IQ, leadership, and an unshakeable drive to be the best.
