Spanish center Aday Mara’s elite playmaking vision has NBA scouts buzzing, potentially positioning the lottery pick to eventually usurp Isaiah Hartenstein’s role in the Thunder’s fluid offense.
When the Oklahoma City Thunder selected Aday Mara with the No. 12 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, it was clear Sam Presti saw something special in the 7-foot-3 center. While Mara is still a long way from becoming Oklahoma City's starting center, one skill already stands out above everything else. His passing.
After reading the latest article from Thunderous Intentions writer Mark Nilon, it's easy to see why Isaiah Hartenstein could become much more replaceable than originally expected. Nilon argued that if Mara develops the way the Thunder envision, he will eventually take over Hartenstein's role, and it's hard to disagree.
Mara is still a developmental prospect who needs time to adjust to the NBA. His frame, consistency, and overall offensive game all need refinement before he's ready to handle a starting role on a championship contender. However, his passing is already NBA-ready.
There is no player quite like Nikola Jokic when it comes to passing from the center position, so comparisons should always be made carefully. That said, when discussing pure passing ability and vision, Mara has the potential to reach an incredibly high level. His feel for the game, creativity, and willingness to make difficult reads are all traits that separate him from most young big men. That is not an exaggeration.
He's already flashing those skills during Summer League, consistently finding open teammates with passes that very few centers would even attempt. Whether it's hitting cutters, throwing cross-court passes, or making quick decisions from the high post, Mara has showcased why so many scouts believed his playmaking could become elite.
That is exactly why Nilon believes Hartenstein should be on notice.
Hartenstein remains an important part of Oklahoma City's rotation thanks to his rebounding, interior defense, and experience. He brings toughness and stability to a team with championship aspirations.
Still, the Thunder have built their offense around constant ball movement and creating advantages through passing. Mara's unique ability to facilitate from the center position fits perfectly within that identity.
There is still plenty of development ahead before Mara is ready to become Oklahoma City's full-time starting five. But if he progresses the way the organization hopes, Nilon's prediction could prove accurate.
For Thunder fans, one thing should remain at the top of the watch list every time Mara takes the floor. His passing ability is truly special, and it could eventually make Hartenstein far more replaceable than anyone initially expected.
