When Jarrett Allen returns, Cavs will have quite the 1-2 punch at the 5

Hartenstein has helped the Cavs in a number of ways

Hartenstein has proven to be a capable roller and occasional lob threat, and has actually shown nice touch on push shots, too, which has been nice to see.

And though it’s not something I’m going to expect regularly, Hartenstein has at least flashed some pick-and-pop/spot-up potential and has hit two-of-five from three-point range with the Cavs.

There’s been some occasional driving instances from Hartenstein when matched up against traditional 5s in rotational burn, too, and in said instances, Hartenstein has shown some viability by utilizing good ball fakes and getting to better angles for looks.

Considering he’s just 22, what Hartenstein has shown offensively with Cleveland in backup 5 burn, he looks to have far more potential on that end than JaVale McGee. In that realm, Hartenstein’s passing has been impressive as well, and that’s been a particularly promising development when he’s been given run thus far with the Cavs.

Now, on the defensive end, Hartenstein does provide a rim protection presence, and could be fine in doing so for spurts in relief of Allen, when Jarrett is back, but it’s abundantly that Hartenstein does need to trim down his fouling regardless. Isaiah, although inexperience likely has had some to do with it, does have a whopping 6.8 fouls per-36 minutes this year, and that’s been still 4.8 per-36 with Cleveland.

He has aided the Cavs’ efforts on the interior at both ends, though, and Hartenstein has been, similarly to Allen, an active and timely screener, which is always impactful as well.