Overview
- Hart disclosed on Tuesday, Sept. 30 that the only definitive surgical fix for his right ring finger is a full joint replacement and that he believes that procedure would force him to stop playing.
- He will keep the finger taped or wrapped and manage variable pain and intermittent nerve symptoms day to day while remaining in the Knicks’ rotation for the title defense.
- The injury began in the 2025 playoffs, Hart had a procedure in July 2025, he re‑aggravated the finger before the 2025-26 season, and he declined a recommended second surgery that would have required roughly two to three months of recovery.
- Hart played through the injury last season and was a key contributor to the Knicks’ title run, posting a 41.3 percent three-point rate and averages of 12.0 points, 7.4 rebounds and 4.8 assists.
- Hart’s choice to forgo immediate surgery factors into contract and durability talks because he earns $20.9 million this year, has a $22.4 million team option for 2027-28, and is eligible for an extension that team salary constraints and his medical history will shape.