The NBA playoffs are a tough grind, and it’s one that wears teams down the deeper they go. For the New York Knicks, who are heading to Atlanta to face the Hawks in a crucial Game 6, they’re already feeling the effects. Josh Hart, a key part of the New York Knicks’ core, is now at serious risk of missing the potential closeout game.
Hart suffered a back contusion during the Knicks’ 126-97 Game 5 win on Tuesday. He logged 30 minutes, finishing with nine points, five rebounds and four assists. It’s not known whether Hart will be available for Game 6. He is listed as questionable, and the New York’s medical staff will do everything possible to try to get him ready for game action.
The forward missed 16 games during the regular season due to a lingering lower-body injury. The time missed, along with potential lingering effects, contributed to a drop in his typically elite offensive production. While still a productive player on both ends, he averaged 9.4 points, 10.0 rebounds, 4.8 assists and 1.6 steals in the series.
But Hart’s impact goes beyond the box score. His dynamism changes the way the Knicks play, giving them the ability to operate in a more free-flowing fashion. What Har brings is inherently cerebral.
After going 2-1 down, New York responded with back-to-back wins. The Knicks now have momentum heading into Game 6 and will be looking to eliminate the Atlanta Hawks in six games. If they lose, they would return home for another shot in a win-or-go-home Game 7. If Josh Hart suits up, it would be significant for the Knicks’ chances.
Where to Watch New York Knicks vs. Atlanta Hawks
The New York Knicks vs. Atlanta Hawks matchup is one of three Game 6 contests scheduled for Thursday. The game will tip off at 7 p.m. ET from State Farm Arena in Atlanta. It will be nationally televised on ESPN, and fans looking to stream the game can do so via FuboTV.
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