The New York Knicks suffered a tough loss in Game 1 of their first-round playoff series against the Cleveland Cavaliers, and now they face the possibility of being without one of their key players for Game 2. Guard Josh Hart is listed as doubtful with an ankle sprain, which could greatly impact the Knicks’ chances of evening the series. Here’s what we know about Hart’s injury and how it could impact the team.
The New York Knicks’ playoff opener against the Cleveland Cavaliers did not come without a price. Guard Josh Hart may miss Game 2 on Tuesday night due to a sprained left ankle. Hart’s injury comes after a promising Game 1 performance, where he made a clutch 3-pointer and outscored Cleveland’s bench 17-14. Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau noted that Hart only participated in part of Monday’s practice and underwent treatment. The Knicks listed Hart as doubtful for Game 2.
Hart’s injury is a blow to the Knicks, who just got back to full strength with the return of All-Star forward Julius Randle and guard Jalen Brunson. Randle scored 19 points in Game 1 after missing five games with an ankle sprain, while Brunson sat out ten games with hand and foot injuries. Hart’s arrival in a deadline trade has revitalized New York’s bench, and he has provided another scoring option for the team. Hart averaged 10.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 3.6 assists in New York’s last 25 regular-season games.
Hart rolled his ankle in the fourth quarter of Game 1 but managed to make a crucial 3-pointer with 1:49 left to put the Knicks back ahead, even though he was favoring the ankle. While the Knicks had a solid outing in Game 1, they still need to come out strong in Game 2 and avoid losing Hart for the rest of the playoffs.
Although the Knicks could potentially be without Josh Hart for Game 2, they still have a talented roster and the determination to come back strong against the Cavaliers. We’ll have to wait and see how Hart’s injury progresses, but one thing is for sure – the Knicks will not give up without a fight. Keep an eye out for their next move as they look to even the series against their tough opponent.
