The Knicks’ stretch without Josh Hart proves he’s the key to their title hopes

The New York Knicks hit a wall from winning the NBA Cup in 2026. They have lost four straight games, including the recent A 31-point drubbing at the hands of the Detroit Pistons. While it certainly looked like the league had the Knicks figured out, a major piece is missing, which changes things dramatically for New York when healthy — Josh Hart.

Hart has been out since spraining his right ankle on Christmas Day. That injury will keep him out for at least the next few games. And while his return represents a light at the end of an incredibly dark tunnel, the team must come to grips with how badly they need Hart’s production.

Josh Hart’s bounce – and defense – is a lot for the Knicks to give up

New York certainly misses Hart’s jump shot. After averaging 9.6 rebounds per game last season, the six-foot-four wing is averaging eight rebounds per game this season. But that includes a period earlier in the year when head coach Mike Brown didn’t optimize Hart’s minutes. Since returning to the lineup, Hart is pulling down 9.4 rebounds per game — and that’s going through 14 games.

But it’s not just the rebounds that Hart adds—though they clearly benefit the Knicks. Hart is also picking up the pace after securing rebounds better than virtually anyone else in the league. In pushing the tempo, Hart puts pressure on opposing defenses and gets them into trouble thanks to the chaotic nature of his movements.

Hart is also an above-average defender. Admittedly, he is not an all-defense candidate. He is neither the best nor even the second defender of his team. But he is clearly a pure positive in this regard. New York allowed 113 points per 100 possessions with Hart in the lineup, good for 11th in the league. They have surrendered 122 points per 100 possessions in their last five games without Hart, fourth-worst in the league.

The return of Josh Hart could strengthen the game of the Knicks

New York is 19-9 this season when Hart plays. And they are 11-4 when he plays 30-plus minutes per game. In contrast, the Knicks are 4-4 without Hart. Obviously, getting a veteran back increases the team’s chances. He’s a key contributor, not to mention a starter. And he’s the rare player who doesn’t need touches or running plays to impact the game.

Although Hart’s absence could have long-term benefits. That forced Brown to dig deeper into his bullpen, turning to guys like Kevin McCullar Jr. and Mohamed Diawara. In particular, McCullar has shown a Hart-like ability to defend multiple positions and push the pace after grabbing rebounds. And that could pay dividends through the playoffs (and beyond). But there is still a huge difference between Hart and his replacements.

Fortunately, Hart’s return seems imminent. He started doing light court work and will be reassessed next week, according to SNI. Still, the Knicks have four games in the next seven days. Fortunately, three of those four games are against losing teams. But New York can take nothing for granted at this point. And beating the weaker teams is essential for them if they hope to compete for a championship this season.

The Knicks should get back to winning ways once Hart returns. Assuming that’s the case, this could all be seen as a learning opportunity in terms of the value Hart brings to the team, as well as how they can try to replace him, if necessary. But the fact remains that Hart is clearly instrumental in what the Knicks hope to accomplish. And they were clearly unwilling to compete without him.