Josh Hart, the versatile forward for the New York Knicks, is currently facing multiple injuries as he navigates the challenges of the 2025-26 NBA season. The most pressing concern at present is a sprained right ankle, which has raised questions about his availability for upcoming games.
As of early February 2026, there are signs of positive progress in Hart’s recovery, although a specific timeline for his return remains uncertain amid ongoing evaluations.
Hart’s journey has been complicated by a previous hand injury he sustained in May 2025 during the Knicks’ run in the Eastern Conference Finals. Following the season, he underwent surgery to address nerve-related damage in his hand. However, he re-aggravated the injury in a training camp scrimmage against teammate Mikal Bridges, which affected his shooting hand. The injury primarily impacted his ring finger, causing numbness that extended to his middle and pinky fingers. Although Hart opted to postpone a second surgery which could sideline him for 2-3 months, he has managed to play through the discomfort, reporting gradual improvement in sensation and committing to intense shooting workouts. His determination was evident when he achieved a season-high of 14 points and nine rebounds in a game against the Bulls despite early shooting struggles.
The ankle sprain Hart experienced began during the Christmas Day game against the Cleveland Cavaliers, which resulted in him missing at least four games initially. As the situation unfolded, further evaluations revealed he would be out for an extended period, missing matchups against key teams such as Philadelphia, Detroit, the Clippers, and the Suns. By early January 2026, Hart had missed seven consecutive games, expressing frustration on his podcast about the slower recovery process compared to his left ankle. However, after receiving clearance for light activity from medical professionals, it was reported that he could potentially return soon.
Before his injury struggles, Hart was averaging impressive stats of 12.3 points, 8 rebounds, and 5.1 assists, contributing significantly to the Knicks’ success. His performance played a key role in the team’s strong record, especially under new head coach Mike Brown, even as Hart transitioned to a bench role with reduced minutes. The absence of Hart has been felt by the Knicks, particularly in rebounding and versatility, which has negatively affected their performance in several recent games.
Despite the challenges of his injuries, there are no indications of setbacks in Hart’s recovery as February unfolds, suggesting he is on a positive trajectory. His previous back scare during the preseason in October 2025 was resolved quickly, providing some optimism for his current situation. The Knicks’ management, along with fans, are focused on ensuring Hart’s full health rather than rushing his return too soon.
In summary, while Josh Hart continues to deal with the residual effects of hand nerve damage and the immediate concern of his ankle sprain, there is hope for his return in the near future. His resilience not only strengthens the Knicks’ chances for playoff success but also showcases his value to the team, with the possibility of enhancing the roster’s depth as the season progresses. The Knicks look to rally around Hart’s determination, hoping for his full recovery to restore their competitive edge.