Josh Hart’s return has helped the New York Knicks regain a sense of balance, writes James L. Edwards of The Athletic.
Back in the starting lineup Sunday in Portland, Hart played 31 minutes and finished with 18 points, three rebounds, and six assists, giving New York an immediate boost after missing time with a right ankle sprain.
Hart said he hoped to return earlier but couldn’t push through the lingering discomfort.
“My plan, originally, I wanted to come back (for) the Clippers game,” he explained, adding that once he felt capable of contributing, he believed game action would actually help his recovery.
“If I’m banged up a little bit, I go out and play, get the movement, and it helps me heal faster.”
The Knicks had dropped five of six games without Hart and often opened games slowly.
That changed Sunday, as New York played with better energy from the start and improved to 12–3 this season with Hart as a starter.
Head coach Mike Brown credited Hart’s impact beyond scoring, highlighting his pace, willingness to push the ball, and ability to create easy baskets that don’t always show up in the stat sheet.
Knicks Notes: Hart, Towns, Kolek, NBA Finals Chances https://t.co/ionT3PSjLx pic.twitter.com/lP6iS2oPo0
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) January 12, 2026
