Cooper Flagg
January 2026
Flagg returned from a two-game ankle absence for his first pro game at Madison Square Garden, while Brunson and Hart also returned for a Knicks side hit by injuries. Flagg was cleared after workouts following a left ankle sprain; Brunson came back from a right ankle sprain and Hart returned after soreness management, with the Knicks staff noting they have rarely had their preferred group available together.
Jalen Brunson
December 2025
Speaking post-game on Prime, Brunson admitted the final was “ugly” but said the Knicks’ focus and connection carried them through. Hart highlighted how recent adversity has toughened the group, with late-game stops and key buckets now seen as expected responses instead of surprises. Brunson publicly praised Anunoby, Kolek, Clarkson and Robinson for their impact, then distilled New York’s mindset into a simple motto: “We’re going to find a way.” Hart echoed that the squad’s growth under pressure is building long-term belief, with the Cup run viewed internally as a launchpad for deeper postseason ambitions.
Josh Hart; Mitchell Robinson (New York Knicks)
October 2025
Both are out for the season opener at Cleveland—Hart with lumbar spasms after a preseason slip; Robinson in ankle injury management after last year’s surgery. Mike Brown must reshuffle starters and bench balance without two core rebound/defence pieces. Expect bigger wings and small-ball contingencies to preserve glass and screen-setting; drop coverage minutes shift to backups with switching mixed in. Offensively, New York must replace Hart’s connective passing and Robinson’s vertical spacing with quicker second-unit tempo.
Josh Hart (New York Knicks)
September 2025
Josh Hart revealed he reaggravated a right finger injury ahead of the new NBA season, requiring him to play with a splint. The setback raises questions about his shooting efficiency as the Knicks chase their first title since 1973. Hart struggled with similar issues in last season’s playoffs, where his shooting dipped significantly. While he averaged 13.6 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 5.9 assists in 77 healthy games last year, the injury could impact his perimeter game as Mike Brown reshapes the Knicks’ rotation.
Josh Hart (New York Knicks)
September 2025
Josh Hart said he believes he deserves a starting role after averaging 13.6 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 5.9 assists last season. Yet, he stressed team-first values, accepting a bench role if required by new Knicks coach Mike Brown. Hart referenced his message of sacrifice, saying it would be selfish to demand starts. Brown will use camp to decide the fifth starter alongside Brunson, Bridges, Anunoby, and Towns. Hart’s versatility and willingness to adapt reinforce his value to the Knicks’ deep rotation.
