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Guard Josh Hart of the New York Knicks reacts with center Mitchell Robinson and guard Tyler Kolek during the second half against the Indiana Pacers at Madison Square Garden on March 17, 2026 in New York City.
The New York Knicks will be without one of their most important glue guys Friday night, as Josh Hart has been ruled out against the Brooklyn Nets due to right knee patellofemoral syndrome.
Hart’s absence comes at a pivotal stretch of the season, with the Knicks riding a four-game winning streak and continuing to solidify their standing in the Eastern Conference playoff race.
With Hart sidelined, Landry Shamet is expected to move into the starting lineup. Veteran guard Jordan Clarkson and rookie Mohamed Diawara are also candidates to absorb additional minutes as coach Mike Brown adjusts his rotation.
Brunson Returns, But Knicks Lose Their Connector
The Knicks will regain Jalen Brunson, who is no longer on the injury report after sitting out Tuesday’s win due to right ankle injury management and a cervical strain. His return restores New York’s offensive engine, but Hart’s absence removes a different kind of impact.
Hart has been central to the Knicks’ identity this season, not just through scoring but through his ability to connect lineups, push tempo and do the “little things” that drive winning. Brown recently emphasized that value, pointing to Hart’s role in keeping the starting unit cohesive.
“He’s been fantastic giving us that energy, giving us the connectivity we needed with that group,” Brown said after the win. “Offensive glass, pushing the pace, getting out in transition — those are things that help us win.”
Brown has even compared Hart’s influence to that of Andre Iguodala, highlighting the veteran wing’s versatility and basketball IQ — traits that often don’t fully show up in the box score but are critical to team success.
Historic Night Highlights Hart’s Value
That said, Hart’s latest performance showed just how impactful he can be when his scoring catches up to the rest of his game.
In Tuesday’s 136-110 win over the Indiana Pacers, Hart erupted for a Knicks career-high 33 points on an astonishing 12-of-13 shooting, including a perfect 5-for-5 from beyond the arc. He added seven rebounds, five assists and two steals in just 26 minutes.
The performance was historic. Hart became the first player in NBA history to record at least 30 points, five three-pointers, five rebounds and five assists while shooting 90 percent or better from the field. He also joined a short list of Knicks players to score 30 or more points on at least 90 percent shooting.
The outburst helped New York dominate from start to finish. OG Anunoby added 26 points, while Karl-Anthony Towns contributed 22 points and 11 rebounds as the Knicks improved to 45-25.
Opportunity for Depth Pieces vs. Nets
Friday’s matchup now shifts the spotlight to New York’s depth.
Shamet’s expected insertion into the starting five brings additional floor spacing, while Clarkson’s microwave scoring could take on increased importance with Hart unavailable. Diawara may also see extended minutes as the Knicks look to maintain their defensive versatility on the wing.
Against a Nets team aiming to play spoiler, the Knicks will need to replicate the energy and connectivity Hart typically provides — even if it comes by committee.
While the knee issue is not believed to be long-term, Hart’s absence is a reminder of how vital he has become to New York’s formula. With Brunson back, the Knicks regain their offensive leader. But replacing Hart’s all-around impact — especially coming off a historic performance — will be far less straightforward.
Alder Almo is a sports journalist covering the NBA for Heavy.com. He has more than 20 years of experience in local and international media, including broadcast, print and digital. He previously covered the Knicks for Empire Sports Media and the NBA for Off the Glass. Alder is from the Philippines and is now based in Jersey City, New Jersey. More about Alder Almo
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