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

BusinessSportsMoneyJosh Hart Rebounds From Benching As Knicks Take 2-0 Series LeadByTim Casey,Senior Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Tim Casey is a reporter who covers basketball and sports business.Follow AuthorMay 22, 2026, 12:10pm EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.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 ImagesAs 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,” Kni...