Overview
- Team update: Hart’s sprained right ankle will keep him out at least another week; he has begun light on-court work and is slated for re-evaluation around Jan. 9.
- Since his Dec. 25 injury, the Knicks have dropped three in a row and are 2-3, with noted declines in transition offense, offensive rebounding, and perimeter resistance.
- Coach Mike Brown said the group is “walking the ball up” and failing to hit usual pace, paint touches, and ball reversals that Hart often ignites.
- New York has tested Miles McBride, Mohamed Diawara, Jordan Clarkson, and double-big lineups with Mitchell Robinson and Karl-Anthony Towns, but none have replicated Hart’s all-around role.
- Reports suggest a return could come soon after the Jan. 9 check, possibly on the Jan. 9–15 road trip; Robinson has returned from ankle management without setbacks, and Towns recently sat one game due to illness.