WASHINGTON — In the preseason, Josh Hart finally put points on the board, scoring two points on two attempts. However, this minimal contribution left him feeling uneasy about his new position.
After Friday’s 118-117 preseason defeat against the Wizards, he even suggested the possibility of transitioning to a bench role.
“I’m a bit lost. I have no idea,” Hart expressed. “We have a couple of days before our game against Boston. So, whether it means finding a rhythm with the starting unit or giving someone else a chance while my role shifts to coming off the bench with that unit, I’m just trying to navigate through it. Right now, I truly have no clue. But we’ll see what unfolds in Boston for the season opener on Tuesday.”
<img style="aspect-ratio:1.5;display:block" decoding="async" fetchpriority="high" data-modal-image="33643051" width="885" height="590" src="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Josh-Hart.jpg?w=1024" alt="Josh Hart hits Johnny Davis in the face after blocking his shot in the Knicks' 118-117 preseason loss to the Wizards on Oct. 18, 2024." class="wp-image-33643051" srcset="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Josh-Hart.jpg?quality=75&strip=all 4470w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Josh-Hart.jpg?resize=300,200&quality=75&strip=all 300w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Josh-Hart.jpg?resize=768,512&quality=75&strip=all 768w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Josh-Hart.jpg?resize=1024,683&quality=75&strip=all 1024w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Josh-Hart.jpg?resize=1536,1024&quality=75&strip=all 1536w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Josh-Hart.jpg?resize=2048,1365&quality=75&strip=all 2048w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Josh-Hart.jpg?resize=878,585&quality=75&strip=all 878w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Josh-Hart.jpg?resize=744,496&quality=75&strip=all 744w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Josh-Hart.jpg?resize=720,480&quality=75&strip=all 720w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Josh-Hart.jpg?resize=576,384&quality=75&strip=all 576w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Josh-Hart.jpg?resize=457,305&quality=75&strip=all 457w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Josh-Hart.jpg?resize=440,293&quality=75&strip=all 440w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Josh-Hart.jpg?resize=424,282&quality=75&strip=all 424w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Josh-Hart.jpg?resize=389,260&quality=75&strip=all 389w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Josh-Hart.jpg?resize=360,240&quality=75&strip=all 360w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites
Josh Hart catches Johnny Davis in the face after blocking his shot during the Knicks’ 118-117 preseason defeat to the Wizards on October 18, 2024. AP
It’s worth noting that Hart made similar remarks at the beginning of last season, specifically expressing frustration over not being able to find his rhythm due to limited ball touches. However, he eventually found his stride.
This season, however, Hart finds himself in a different situation, sharing the court with two offensive powerhouses—Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns—alongside another high-volume scorer in Mikal Bridges.
“(Brunson) and (Towns) are essential to our game. I believe we performed quite well this preseason,” Hart stated after the Knicks concluded with a 4-1 record. “I’m comfortable with that. We just need to figure out how we can all perform at our best, regardless of roles or minutes.”
The second unit, as seen during the preseason, is spearheaded by Miles McBride and Precious Achiuwa, who sustained an injury on Friday.
Throughout 90 minutes of preseason play, Hart attempted only six shots, scoring a mere two points.
Following the initial preseason game in early October, Hart emphasized the need for sacrifice.
He reiterated this sentiment on Friday, but with the added perspective that he might benefit from a different role.
In the fourth quarter on Friday, Achiuwa was escorted to the locker room by a trainer and did not return to the bench.
The frontcourt reserve, one of the standout players for the Knicks during the preseason, seemed to pull his hamstring following a dunk attempt, prompting an immediate substitution.
After witnessing a public altercation between his father and a close friend on national television, Brunson expressed that both sides were to blame for poor choices.
“I just wanted to clarify that families do argue. Things were said that could’ve been addressed better from both sides, but here we are,” Brunson shared on his podcast, ‘Roommates Show.’ “People think everything is falling apart. But it is what it is now. I just feel it should have been managed much more effectively.”
During the preseason game on Sunday featuring the Timberwolves and the Knicks, Donte DiVincenzo, who was a groomsman at Brunson’s wedding, …
During the game, he started to chirp at the Knicks bench, making some sharp remarks aimed at Rick Brunson, who is a Knicks assistant and Jalen’s father.
This tension led to a postgame altercation that required separation between DiVincenzo and Rick on the Madison Square Garden court.
However, various sources reported that both parties managed to resolve their differences in the following days and are now on good terms.
Josh Hart Navigates a New Role as Knicks Prepare for Season Opener
The New York Knicks and Their Ambitious Season Ahead
The New York Knicks are gearing up for an exciting season, and all eyes are on Josh Hart as he steps into a pivotal role with the team. After a successful stint last season, Hart’s transition into this new season is expected to have a significant impact on the Knicks’ performance. As the team prepares for its season opener, let’s delve into how Hart is adapting and what this means for the Knicks.
Josh Hart’s Background and Impact on the Knicks
Josh Hart, known for his tenacity on both ends of the court, has become a crucial piece of the Knicks’ puzzle. His versatility allows him to play both the shooting guard and small forward positions, providing essential depth to the roster. With the Knicks looking to make a deep playoff run, Hart’s role is more important than ever.
Key Attributes of Josh Hart
- Defensive Prowess: Hart is known for his ability to guard multiple positions, making him a valuable asset on defense.
- Rebounding Skills: Standing at 6’4″, Hart’s rebounding skills are impressive for a guard, often ranking him among the top in his position.
- Three-Point Shooting: His ability to stretch the floor with accurate shooting from beyond the arc opens up the offense for the Knicks.
Josh Hart’s Transition to a New Role
As the Knicks prepare for their season opener, Hart is navigating a new role that may see him taking on more responsibilities. With the departure of some key players and the addition of new talent, Hart’s ability to adapt is vital. Here’s how he is expected to transition:
Increased Leadership Responsibilities
With experienced players leading the team in the past, Hart’s role as a veteran is more pronounced this season. His experience from the playoffs will be instrumental in guiding younger players through challenging situations.
Offensive Role Expansion
Hart’s role in the offense is set to expand. He is expected to contribute not just as a spot-up shooter but also as a playmaker. This versatility in his game is crucial for the Knicks, especially in tight matchups.
Defensive Anchor
Hart is anticipated to take on the role of the defensive anchor for the second unit. His ability to guard the opposing team’s best players will be vital as the Knicks look to maintain pressure throughout the game.
Practical Tips for Hart and the Knicks
For Josh Hart and the Knicks to maximize their potential this season, here are some practical tips:
- Develop Chemistry: Building strong on-court relationships with teammates will be crucial for effective communication and teamwork.
- Focus on Conditioning: Staying in peak physical condition is essential, especially as the season progresses and games become more demanding.
- Film Study: Reviewing game film can help Hart and the team identify areas for improvement and strategize for upcoming opponents.
Case Studies: Previous Season Performances
Looking back at previous seasons can provide insights into what to expect from Hart this year. Here are some notable performances:
| Season | Points Per Game | Rebounds Per Game | Assists Per Game |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020-2021 | 9.5 | 8.3 | 1.8 |
| 2021-2022 | 10.5 | 5.6 | 3.2 |
| 2022-2023 | 12.0 | 5.5 | 4.1 |
First-Hand Experience: Hart’s Perspective
In recent interviews, Hart shared his thoughts on the upcoming season:
“I’m excited for the challenge ahead. It’s an opportunity for us to come together as a team and really make a statement. I’m ready to step up and do whatever it takes to help us win.”
Building Team Chemistry Before the Opener
The Knicks are keen on building team chemistry before their first game. Several team-building activities and practices are being organized:
- Preseason Training Camps: Intensive training sessions are crucial for honing skills and developing team dynamics.
- Team Retreats: Engaging in off-court activities can foster relationships and improve camaraderie among players.
- Scrimmages: Real-game practices help in understanding each player’s playing style and how they can complement one another.
Expectations from the Knicks This Season
As the Knicks prepare for their season opener, fan expectations are high. Key areas to watch include:
Playoff Aspirations
After a promising last season, the Knicks are aiming for a deeper playoff run. The success of players like Hart will be crucial.
Player Development
With a mix of seasoned players and young talent, the Knicks need to focus on developing skills and confidence throughout the roster.
Fan Engagement and Support
Knicks fans are known for their loyalty and support. Engaging with the fanbase through social media and community events will be vital for building excitement.
Conclusion
As Josh Hart navigates his new role with the New York Knicks, all eyes will be on him to see how he enhances the team’s performance. With a focus on leadership, offensive contributions, and defensive strength, Hart is poised to make a significant impact this season. The Knicks have a lot to look forward to, and fans can expect an exhilarating journey ahead.
