Overview
- Team officials say Hart has begun light court work and will be re-evaluated on Jan. 9, keeping him out for at least another week.
- Hart injured his right ankle on Dec. 25 vs. the Cavaliers and has now missed five straight games, during which the Knicks are 2-3.
- Coach Mike Brown cited a noticeable dip in pace and fewer second-chance opportunities in Hart’s absence, underscoring his two-way value.
- With Hart sidelined, rotations have shifted: rookie Mohamed Diawara started three games before Miles McBride moved into the first unit, with Jordan Clarkson and Kevin McCullar Jr. filling minutes.
- Mitchell Robinson returned Saturday after three games of left-ankle management, while Karl-Anthony Towns missed Friday’s game due to illness.