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Josh Hart did not have an ideal start to his preseason. The lack of numbers to show on offense has the F/G in limbo about his role with the new-look New York Knicks as he has just two points to show for in their five warm-up games. The Knicks went 4-1 in the preparatory matchups, but Hart's scoring dip comes as a cause for concern.
Hart started in four of the five games and bagged two points in the team's narrow 118-117 win over the Washington Wizards on Friday (Oct. 18). Speaking to reporters postgame, he explained he was lost as the regular season loomed.
“I’m lost. I have no idea. There’s a couple days before Boston. So whether that’s trying to get a rhythm with that starting unit or we give somebody else a look and my role changes and comes off the bench and go with that unit.”
Hart averaged 10.6 field goal attempts over 42 starts with the Knicks last edition, but the addition of Mikal Bridges will surely change those numbers. During his time with NY, Hart's hustle has made him one of the more key role players for the side as they made the playoffs for two seasons straight. The question is whether the lack of touches will dent his game.
Josh Hart weighs in on his role as new-look Knicks aim for championship run
Before a more despondent tone following his two-point showing against the Wizards, Josh Hart weighed in on his role with the revamped Knicks as they bolstered their side with the additions of Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges this summer.
Per The Athletic, he believed his scoring would have to take a backseat while adding there would be a different role.
"Last year, especially at certain times, when I had certain guards on me, it would be pick-and-rolls and putting those guys in actions. I would be in the short pocket and make those kinds of decisions. That’s probably something I won’t be doing too much this year. Right now, it’s just focusing on defending, rebounding, pushing it in the fast break and trying to get those guys easier looks and find those guys when they’re open and rock with that."
Josh Hart has shown his two-way impact and his scoring prowess cannot be ignored. Whether he is tasked to lead the second-string unit or focus on more off-ball movement will be one to watch out for this season.
