The New York Knicks are aiming to close out their series against the Atlanta Hawks, but they could be without a key contributor.
Forward Josh Hart exited New York’s 126–97 Game 5 win on Tuesday, April 28 during the fourth quarter and did not return to the bench.
Following the game, Knicks head coach Mike Brown said he had no update on Hart’s condition, while a team spokesperson noted that no information had yet been provided by the medical staff.
With the Knicks holding a 3–2 series advantage, Game 6 is set for Thursday, April 30 at 7 p.m. ET.
Here’s the latest on Hart’s status as New York prepares for Game 6 against Atlanta:
Is Josh Hart playing tonight vs. Hawks?
It remains uncertain. In their first official injury report released late Wednesday, the New York Knicks listed Josh Hart as questionable with a lower back contusion—marking the first confirmation that he’s dealing with an injury, though the extent is still unknown.
With a chance to close out the series, Hart will likely push to play, but given it’s still early in the postseason, New York could also opt to be cautious.
Known for his toughness and physical style, Hart has frequently battled through minor injuries and remains a key piece of the Knicks’ championship aspirations. In this series, he’s played a versatile defensive role, often switching assignments from game to game.
If Hart is unable to go, the Knicks still have strong wing defenders in OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges. Head coach Mike Brown has used Hart in a way that allows New York to switch across pick-and-rolls, giving the defense added flexibility.
Hart appeared to suffer the back issue in the first half of Game 5 but continued playing before being subbed out with 6:27 remaining. He headed to the locker room and did not return, though the move may have been precautionary with the Knicks holding a 24-point lead at the time.
In just over 30 minutes, Hart finished with nine points on 3-of-8 shooting, along with five rebounds and four assists.
Game 6 is set for Thursday, April 30 in Atlanta, with New York leading the series 3-2. The matchup will take place at State Farm Arena, tipping off at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN, with streaming available on Disney+ and ESPN.
This season, Hart appeared in 66 games, averaging 12.0 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game.
Leave a Reply