The New York Knicks picked up a hard-fought victory on Saturday evening in Game 1 of their NBA playoff series against the Cleveland Cavaliers. They took home court advantage, setting themselves up well for the remainder of the series.
However, it wasn’t all positive following the game. Late in the fourth quarter while attempting to ice the game, Josh Hart came down awkwardly after securing a rebound. He was able to stay in the game and finish things off, but his outlook certainly wasn’t encouraging.
Hart was listed as doubtful for Game 2 on Tuesday night to start the week. But, it looks like the extra time off really paid dividends. Things are trending in the right direction as it sounds like there is a chance Hart can suit up tonight.
According to the Knicks’ official PR on Twitter, Hart has been upgraded from doubtful to questionable.
Another positive update was provided by Zach Braziller of the New York Post. He shared on Twitter that Hart left practice this morning without a limp, giving Braziller a thumbs up. Braziller also asked him how he was feeling and Hart said good, with a smile.
That is huge news for the Knicks as Hart quickly became an integral part of their rotation upon being acquired from the Portland Trail Blazers via trade. He quickly became a favorite of head coach Tom Thibodeau, as he filled numerous roles for the team on the court.
NBA NEWS & PLAYOFFS COVERAGE: Josh Hart, New York Knicks & Cleveland Cavaliers Updates
When Jalen Brunson was sidelined because of an injury, Hart was playing some backup point guard with the second unit. When Julius Randle was sidelined because of an ankle sprain, Hart played more minutes in the frontcourt, matching up with power forwards.
His versatility is key to the Knicks’ game plan as he is a Swiss army knife. He can guard every position on the court as he is athletic enough to stick with players on the perimeter and strong enough to handle himself on the interior.
NBA NEWS & PLAYOFFS COVERAGE: Josh Hart, New York Knicks & Cleveland Cavaliers Updates
If Hart is held out of the lineup, the Knicks could opt to shrink their rotation to eight players. His intangibles would be virtually impossible to replace, but minutes could also go to Deuce McBride, who would provide an impact defensively, or Evan Fournier, who would bring more of an offensive punch.
Want the latest in NBA analysis, breaking news, and insider information? Click Here.
