Overview
- Hart advanced to taking contact in practice and Mike Brown said he is "definitely getting close," with a potential return as soon as Sunday in Portland.
- The Knicks are 3-5 since Hart’s Christmas Day ankle sprain, including a 112-107 loss in Phoenix in which Jalen Brunson went 1-for-6 in the fourth quarter with two late turnovers.
- Brown acknowledged testing rotations to cover Hart’s ballhandling and pace, as increased on-ball duties for Brunson have strained the offense against pressure.
- Reports indicate the Wizards may rest newly acquired Trae Young, a decision that could reduce the chances their top-8 protected 2026 first-round pick conveys to New York.
- Miles McBride said he believes he can be one of the league’s best point-of-attack defenders, and Guerschon Yabusele missed Friday’s game with a quad injury.