Josh Hart is making strides toward his return to the New York Knicks lineup. After missing eight consecutive games due to a sprained ankle, he has resumed taking contact during practice. Coach Mike Brown indicated that Hart is “definitely getting close” to being available again.
Potential Return Against Portland
Hart’s possible return could come as soon as the upcoming Sunday match against the Portland Trail Blazers. The Knicks, struggling in Hart’s absence, have a 3-5 record without him. This includes a narrow 112-107 loss to the Phoenix Suns, where Hart observed from the bench.
Impact of Hart’s Absence
The Knicks have felt a significant loss in playmaking abilities without Hart. With Hart sidelined, Jalen Brunson has had to shoulder more responsibilities against tough defensive strategies. Young players like Tyler Kolek, Mikal Bridges, and Miles McBride faced difficulties stepping into these roles during Friday’s game.
“We’re trying to give some young guys an opportunity,” Coach Brown explained. “They’ve just got to do the best they can.”
Hart’s Recovery Journey
Hart injured his ankle on Christmas Day. He discussed the challenges of the injury on his podcast, suggesting that his right ankle has not healed as well as his left. “If this is my left ankle, I’m back by now,” Hart noted, indicating he has had more favorable recovery experiences with past injuries to his left ankle.
- Injury sustained: Christmas Day
- Games missed: 8
- Current Knicks record without Hart: 3-5
As Hart recovers, he remains optimistic about his return. “I’ll be back at some point,” he stated. “Pretty good little sprain.” Hart humorously added that after this injury, he will have few ligaments left to sprain, implying he will be solid moving forward.
Knicks’ Draft Future and Wizards’ Struggles
Off the court, the New York Knicks’ future is linked to the performance of the Washington Wizards, who control the Knicks’ draft prospects. Recent trades have not favored the Wizards, and they recently acquired four-time All-Star Trae Young.
The Wizards’ current record stands at 10-27, which is among the bottom ranks of the league. This situation might increase the chance of the Knicks losing their draft pick, tied to both teams’ performances this season. Should the Wizards maintain a bottom-four finish, they would avoid conveying their pick to the Knicks, further complicating the Knicks’ draft strategy.
