Josh Hart’s Return on the Horizon

PHOENIX — Josh Hart, out for eight straight games due to an ankle sprain, is making progress. After participating in contact drills during practice, there’s an optimistic tone from coach Mike Brown, who mentioned that Hart is “definitely getting closer” to returning.

This update raises hopes for Hart’s potential comeback as early as Sunday against Portland, and the Knicks could really use him. They’ve gone 3-5 without him, including a 112-107 defeat to the Suns on Friday, a game he observed from the bench.

Hart’s absence has created some challenges. It’s placed more weight on Jalen Brunson, who has had to manage the ball more while facing additional pressure from opponents. In that recent game, players like Tyler Kolek, Mikal Bridges, and Miles McBride struggled to step up.

Coach Brown commented, “We’re trying to give some young guys a chance.” It seems he feels it’s important for them to make the most out of these opportunities.

Speaking on a podcast, Hart reflected on his injury, mentioning he sprained his right ankle during Christmas. He admitted that healing hasn’t been a familiar process for him, noting, “If this was my left ankle, I’d be back by now.” He seems to have dealt with significant sprains before on that side, but is keeping a positive outlook this time around.

Meanwhile, the Wizards are still influencing the Knicks’ draft plans after acquiring a four-time All-Star in a trade for Trae Young. Ideally, this should help the Wizards improve, hence increasing the chances of transferring a protected pick to the Knicks in 2026. But reports indicate the Wizards might opt to let Young rest his injuries this season rather than force him back on the court to boost their performance.

Young, who missed Friday’s game against the Pelicans due to a quadriceps strain and a recurring knee issue, may be sidelined for a bit longer. This means, paradoxically, that the Wizards have a better chance of losing games—short-term setbacks could ultimately favor the Knicks in the draft.

Currently, the Wizards hold one of the worst records in the league at 10-27. If they stay in the bottom four, they can retain their draft pick from the Knicks, leaving them with two second-round picks if they don’t transfer it in the next draft.