New York Knicks guard Josh Hart has acknowledged that unresolved contract negotiations can become difficult for players, even as he attempts to remain focused on the upcoming NBA season.
The Knicks recently announced that they were suspending contract extension discussions until later in the campaign, affecting several players who are eligible for new agreements.
Hart had previously expressed concerns about allowing negotiations to continue “trickling into the season,” explaining that uncertainty could “wear people down and it can affect how you go out and handle business on a day-to-day basis.”
The 31-year-old had hoped to resolve his situation before the regular season began, but the team’s decision means he will have to continue playing without knowing whether an extension will be agreed upon.
Speaking to reporters Saturday, Hart explained that the uncertainty could affect players differently depending on the day.
“There will be days when you don’t think about it, days where you’re like, ‘Let’s hoop,’ and then other days where it’s top of the mind,” Hart said.
“We’re human, sometimes it’s difficult if you don’t know what your future is. Sometimes that’s tough, battling that, some days. But some days, you’re not even worried about it.
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Hart is eligible for a four-year extension worth as much as $131.2 million, but the two sides have not reached an agreement.
Karl-Anthony Towns and Miles McBride are also affected by the Knicks’ decision to postpone negotiations.
New York is attempting to maintain financial flexibility while avoiding the NBA’s second luxury-tax apron, which places additional restrictions on teams with high payrolls.
The franchise must also consider Jalen Brunson’s contract situation, with the Knicks captain becoming eligible for an extension next offseason.
