The New York Knicks’ Wednesday loss to the San Antonio Spurs was frustrating, but getting outplayed by a 17-win Charlotte Hornets team is a bigger issue. That’s the harsh reality the Knicks must confront after their 115-98 defeat in Charlotte on Thursday night. Knicks forward Josh Hart has a pressing concern about where the team stands.
“Mental toughness. I think that’s my main concern right now,” Hart said in a post-game interview. “We can make all the excuses in the world, but there’s highs and lows in the season and no one’s 82-0. But the way that we’re losing games is embarrassing.”
Playing the second game of a back-to-back on the road without Jalen Brunson is a challenge, but their effort didn’t reflect the fight fans have come to expect this season. The Hornets outworked and outclassed them for most of the night.
Hart, who typically pulls down 9.7 rebounds per game, managed just four against the Hornets—a clear sign of Charlotte’s greater urgency. The Hornets dominated the boards 52-38, exposing the Knicks’ lack of energy. But rebounding wasn’t the only issue. New York struggled offensively, hitting just 40 percent from the field and a dismal 10-of-39 from deep (25 percent). The bench also failed to contribute, getting outscored 37-11.
The Knicks now face serious questions about their resilience and ability to bounce back. With the playoffs approaching, finding consistency and regaining their defensive intensity will be critical. If they don’t, frustrating losses like this could become the story of their season.