The New York Knicks have seen impressive growth from Josh Hart, particularly in his three-point shooting. Despite a previous finger injury that impacted his performance, Hart has made significant strides this season. His recovery and development have reshaped expectations among fans and teammates alike.
Josh Hart’s Remarkable Comeback
Josh Hart suffered a severe finger injury during the playoffs against the Boston Celtics last season. Following this, his three-point shooting dropped significantly during the postseason games against Indiana, where he managed only 18.2% from beyond the arc. Hart entered the current season still struggling with the injury, affecting his performance and role on the team.
Adjusting His Play Style
At the beginning of this season, he transitioned to a bench role but returned to the starting lineup after hard work and the addition of shooting coach Peter Patton. This change highlighted his offensive capabilities and versatility. Hart noted, “I’m shooting the ball with confidence,” which contrasts with prior seasons where he frequently facilitated for others instead of focusing on scoring.
Impressive Shooting Statistics
As the Knicks prepared for their NBA Cup quarterfinal against the Orlando Magic, Hart boasted an impressive 39.8% shooting percentage from three-point range this season. This marks an increase from 33.3% last year and 31.0% two years ago. In fact, since moving to the starting role, he has shot 44.7% from beyond the arc, contributing to the Knicks’ favorable record of 8-1 during that span.
- Current Three-Point Percentage: 39.8%
- Three-Point Percentage Last Season: 33.3%
- Three-Point Percentage Two Seasons Ago: 31.0%
- Recent Performance Since Starting: 44.7%
- Team Record Since His Promotion: 8-1
Coaching Support and Development
Hart attributes much of his growth to the daily coaching he receives from Peter Patton. He expressed gratitude for having a shooting coach on staff, allowing him to focus on his mechanics regularly. “It’s definitely feeling better,” Hart said, showcasing his positive outlook on recovery and performance.
Knicks Coach Comments
Knicks head coach Mike Brown emphasized the value Hart brings to the team. He compared Hart to NBA veteran Andre Iguodala, noting that players with high basketball IQs have a profound impact on their teams. Such players excel both offensively and defensively, fulfilling various roles as needed.
In summary, Josh Hart’s journey from a struggling shooter to a key asset for the Knicks demonstrates resilience and growth. His newfound confidence and shooting accuracy make him a critical player to watch this season.
