Josh Hart has recently reflected on his evolution as a teammate, particularly highlighting the growth he experienced during his tenure with the Portland Trail Blazers. Now a member of the New York Knicks, Hart has garnered a reputation as one of the most dependable players within a team that boasts a solid roster, including star guard Jalen Brunson.
While Hart has always exhibited commendable team spirit dating back to his college days at Villanova, his role in the NBA became more pronounced during his time in Portland. With the Trail Blazers, alongside established scorers like Damian Lillard and Anfernee Simons, Hart learned to adapt his game to ensure he could contribute effectively, even when not the primary focus on offense.
Hart has notably embraced his responsibilities as a “hustle guy.” His contributions may not always be reflected in traditional box scores, but his impact is felt through his willingness to perform the unglamorous yet essential tasks. Setting screens, boxing out opponents, and diving for loose balls are just a few of the ways Hart strives to support his teammates.
In a recent statement, Hart acknowledged, “I think I acquired that in Portland. Mark Tyndale, who’s here now, I told him, ‘I’m not getting the ball.’ We had Dame, Ant, Jerami, we’re not saying you can’t score, but they can score the ball better.” This transition required Hart to shift his mindset, but ultimately, it has positioned him in a healthy state of mind and prepared him for his current role with the Knicks.
Now embraced as one of the most reliable players on the Knicks roster, Hart’s ability to understand and execute his role has proven vital, especially for head coach Mike Brown as he strategizes for the future. While he may not be the go-to shot-creator, Hart’s commitment to team play and selflessness make him an invaluable asset as the Knicks pursue success in the competitive landscape of the NBA.