New York Knicks guard-forward Josh Hart made it clear he sees himself as a starting-caliber player but stressed that team success remains his top priority.
Speaking to reporters, Hart began with a lighthearted remark: “If I don’t start, I’ll probably ask for a trade.” He quickly clarified his stance, adding, “I had the best year of my career last year, but that’s in the past. I think I’m a starter in the league, I think I deserve to be a starter in the league. But at the end of the day, it’s about what’s best for the team.”
Hart emphasized his willingness to adapt under new head coach Mike Brown. “Last year, I talked about sacrifice the whole time and being a good steward of my gifts. It would be extremely selfish for me to go out there and demand to start. Whatever Mike wants to do, or doesn’t want to do, I’m cool with,” he said.
The 30-year-old is coming off a career-best 2024–25 season, where he averaged 13.6 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 5.9 assists across 77 starts. His effort and versatility made him one of the Knicks’ most reliable players.
Hart also etched his name into franchise history by recording nine triple-doubles, the most ever by a Knick in a single season. He became only the fifth player in team history to post consecutive triple-doubles, joining legends like Walt Frazier and Jerry Lucas.
In the postseason, Hart’s impact carried over. He notched a triple-double in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Boston Celtics, the franchise’s first playoff triple-double since Frazier in 1972.
Hart’s heavy workload earned him the NBA’s “minutes leader” award, as he averaged 37.6 minutes per game. His ability to rebound, defend multiple positions, and facilitate offense has been key to New York’s resurgence.
With Brown now leading the Knicks after Tom Thibodeau’s dismissal, Hart’s role in the starting lineup remains a storyline to watch. The roster features established names like Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, and Karl-Anthony Towns, creating competition for starting spots.
