The New York Knicks have hit a rough patch, losing three of their last four games, including a disappointing 115-98 defeat to the Charlotte Hornets. This downturn has sparked frustration within the team, with Josh Hart openly criticizing their recent performances.
“The way we’re losing games is embarrassing,” Hart stated in his postgame press conference. “We’re not doing what it takes, we’re not doing the extra effort, we’re not giving energy. And we’re crying to refs…We can be more aggressive defensively on the ball. We can be more assertive offensively. Not being stagnant, communicating better. I think we got outrebounded by 14 today. A lot of that is effort. None of that takes talent. None of that is schemes and those kinds of things.”
Hart’s candid remarks highlight the Knicks’ struggles, particularly in effort-based aspects of the game. Their lack of intensity has been glaring, and their inability to secure rebounds, play with energy, and execute properly has been costly.
A major factor contributing to New York’s slump is the absence of Jalen Brunson. The All-Star guard is currently sidelined with an ankle sprain, and his absence has significantly weakened the team’s offensive rhythm. However, given the Knicks’ offseason investments, they were expected to have enough depth to handle such setbacks.
With the playoffs fast approaching, this downturn in form is a concerning development for Knicks fans. They were considered one of the biggest threats to the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference, but their recent performances suggest they need to regroup quickly if they are to remain a serious contender.