ESPN Spotlights Mistake Still Impacting the Cleveland Cavaliers' Frontcourt Depth

The Cleveland Cavaliers, despite their strong Eastern Conference record and two-way play last season, are criticized for a past personnel decision: not extending a qualifying offer to center Isaiah Hartenstein during the summer leading into the 2021-22 season.

This decision allowed Hartenstein to sign with the LA Clippers. He subsequently became a key contributor for the LA Clippers, New York Knicks, and is now an integral piece for the Oklahoma City Thunder, even becoming a crucial part of an NBA championship team. ESPN's Zach Kram specifically identifies this non-offer as a mistake Cleveland "surely regrets".

At the time, Hartenstein was considered a journeyman, having been waived by Houston and traded by Denver. However, he had shown significant potential during a 16-game stint with the Cavaliers, averaging 17 points, 12 rebounds, and 5 assists per 36 minutes. The Cavaliers, having just drafted Evan Mobley, believed they no longer needed Hartenstein.

In retrospect, this decision is seen as puzzling ("a head scratcher"). While Hartenstein's current salary with the Thunder would now be too expensive for Cleveland, the Cavaliers have been searching for reliable depth behind centers Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley ever since letting Hartenstein go, highlighting the ongoing consequence of that choice. Hindsight reveals the missed opportunity.