New York Knicks guard Josh Hart acknowledged on Friday that adjusting to his role as the team’s sixth man could bring moments of frustration this season. Hart told Newsday that balancing his personal expectations with what’s best for the team will be an ongoing challenge.
“I think throughout the season it’ll be a battle of, you know, kind of fighting the egotistical view of it,” Hart said. “I think I did have a good year last year. And now with a different role, it’s totally different.”
Hart stressed that he has always been willing to make sacrifices for the team. “The biggest thing I’ve had to sacrifice my whole career…whether I’ve got to sacrifice or not, make the team the best we can be,” he explained.
Despite potential frustrations, Hart said he remains committed to New York’s success. “There’s going to be days where I’m just like, ‘Man, that’s some bull,’” he said. “But it’ll be a constant thing of fighting that, but making sure I know that this is what’s best for the team and locking in on that.”
Hart’s versatility has been a key factor for the Knicks this season. Through five games, he is averaging 2.8 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game off the bench. His ability to distribute and defend allows New York to maintain energy and balance when starters rest.
The Knicks, currently 2-3, have leaned on stars Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, and Karl-Anthony Towns to lead the team in scoring and playmaking. Hart’s role as a stabilizer has become essential in bridging the production gap between the starters and bench.
In previous seasons, Hart has shown he can adapt to different roles, posting career averages of 10.3 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game. His experience with multiple teams, including the Lakers, Pelicans, Blazers, and Knicks, gives him the perspective needed to embrace the sixth-man responsibilities.
Hart’s focus remains on the bigger picture as the Knicks aim to build momentum early in the 2025-26 season. “I try to make sure whether I’ve got to sacrifice or not, make the team the best that we can be,” he said. “That’s what I’m locking in on.”
