Josh Hart called the Knicks’ Game 1 victory in Boston “tough” and “gritty” but made clear that the focus now shifts to Game 2.
Following a 108-105 overtime win in the Eastern Conference semifinals, Hart spoke about the team’s mindset and how physicality played a central role.
“You know, we got beat with bats for six games, so we brought our bats here,” Hart said when asked about Boston’s three-point attempts despite New York’s foul trouble. “It took us a little while to figure out how the game will be called.”
The Celtics attempted a playoff-record 60 three-pointers, but Hart credited Boston’s shooters while acknowledging that adjusting to officiating was part of the early game challenge.
Despite missing 14 free throws and falling behind by 20 points, the Knicks rallied behind defensive stops and late shot-making.
Hart, who went 3-for-6 from the line himself, said the win was more about resilience than execution. “It was just toughness, just grittiness,” he said. “Everyone came in and contributed and helped in a positive way.”
When asked about Mikal Bridges’ impact, Hart pointed to moments that don’t show up in the box score. “He’s a winning player, he makes winning plays, and he should be celebrated for that,” Hart said, citing defensive sequences in games against Brooklyn, Chicago, and Detroit.
Bridges hit a key three-pointer in overtime and recorded the game-sealing steal on Jaylen Brown.
Hart also downplayed the idea of building confidence off a single game. “We always have confidence,” he said. “If you get too high, you’re going to get knocked down. If you get too low in this league, you’re going to get buried.”
Regarding Jalen Brunson’s performance, Hart emphasized trust over surprise. “Clutch player of the year for a reason,” he said, referencing Brunson’s late-game shot-making. “We’re comfortable with him down, you know, with the ball in his hand.”
Asked how the team approaches Game 2, Hart avoided clichés. “It’s not about being greedy,” he said. “We want to win every game. Sometimes that’s not realistic, but we got to make sure we go out there and compete at a high level.”
The Knicks now lead the series 1–0, but Hart made it clear that momentum doesn’t carry itself. “They’re coming off a loss and they’re going to come back firing,” he said.
Game 2 is set for Wednesday night at TD Garden.
