3 Knicks Who Need More Playing Time for a Championship Run

Josh Hart

Since being acquired by the Knicks in a mid-season trade last year, Josh Hart has been an X-factor for New York. Coach Thibs utilizes Hart in every position and role imaginable. He guards the opponent's best player most nights, regardless of their size and position. Despite technically being listed as a 6'4 shooting guard, Hart plays much bigger than his physical attributes.

In fact, Hart is one of the best rebounders in his position. He is more of a power forward thanks to his strength, rebounding, and physicality. His season averages of 7.8 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 3.2 assists in 29.9 minutes per game are indicative of his all-around game. Especially with Julius Randle out, the way he has stepped up on both ends of the floor, but especially as a physical presence has been nothing short of impressive.

Hart is an inconsistent shooter, only hitting 30.6% of his threes this season. This can be a liability on the offensive end, but he does enough of everything else to still be an impactful player. Plus, he shoots it a lot better when he plays more. In the games where he played over 40 minutes this season, Hart has shot 40% from downtown.

The Villanova standout was a crucial piece for the Knicks in last year's playoffs, being a major two-way contributor in their first-round win over the Cleveland Cavaliers. His versatility and toughness are made for the postseason. The Knicks will need every bit of that if they want to make a deep run.

The New York Knicks have the third-best odds (+700) in the Eastern Conference to make the NBA Finals. If you think they can get over the hump this season with this deep, talented roster, head over to BetMGM and take advantage of their sign-up bonus.

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