Josh Hart Rebounds From Benching As Knicks Take 2-0 Series Lead

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 21: Josh Hart #3 reacts after scoring a basket against the Cleveland Cavaliers during the third quarter of the New York Knicks in Game Two of the NBA Eastern Conference Finals at Madison Square Garden on May 21, 2026 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images) Getty Images As the New York Knicks overcame a 22-point fourth quarter deficit to win Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals in overtime Tuesday night, veteran starter Josh Hart sat on the bench, cheering on his teammates rather than playing.

Hart was ineffective all game, so coach Mike Brown down the stretch went with reserve Landry Shamet, who delivered with three 3-pointers and a lockdown defensive performance on Cleveland Cavaliers guard James Harden. Still, in Thursday night’s 109-93 Game 2 victory at Madison Square Garden, Hart showed how important he is to the Knicks as the franchise seeks its first title since 1973. Hart had a career playoff-high 26 points, seven assists and just one turnover, helping the Knicks to their ninth consecutive victory.

Hart got off to a slow start, missing five of his first seven shots, including all three 3-pointers. After his third 3 clanged off the back of the rim midway through the first quarter, Hart pulled his shirt over his mouth. Hart, ever the perfectionist, wasn’t thrilled.

“I don’t know if you could say what he was saying to himself out loud,” Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns said. Hart admitted he was down on himself. He had been working with Knicks assistants Kwazdo Ahelegbe and Pater Patton on his shot, and yet here he was, again missing open looks.