PHILADELPHIA — Josh Hart has been instrumental in many memorable wins at the Wells Fargo Center dating back to his time at Villanova.
It's hard to imagine he's ever had as much of an impact on a win as he did Friday night.
In the 29:35 that Hart was on the floor, the Knicks outscored the 76ers by a whopping 46 points, winning 128-92.
The reserve wing gave his all on both ends of the floor and did his best to play a key role in this lopsided win.
“I thought Josh was great on defense, playmaking, hustle, everything,” coach Tom Thibodeau said after the Knicks improved to 3-0 since trading OG Anunoby.
Hart had 10 points, 15 rebounds, six assists and one block.
His plus-46 was the best of any NBA player this season, according to StatsMuse.
When teammate Jalen Brunson jokingly asked him about it, he replied, “They staggered my time with you, so it was easy.”
He later added: But at the end of the day, you have to focus on doing your part and stuff. Sometimes that statistic is just context, and that's great. ”
Hart is enjoying coming to Philadelphia and playing at the Wells Fargo Center.
One example of this is the many Knicks fans who traveled to see the two rivals meet for the first time this season.
Additionally, he has enjoyed many great moments within the building.
This was another one.
“I've always loved Philadelphia and playing in this arena,” Hart said. “A lot of memories, a lot of good times. I don't think I have that many losses here other than the whip in the ass of Creighton that they gave us.” is always a good thing.”
Hart's biggest contribution came on the glass in the form of a season-high 15 rebounds.
He has always been one of the best rebounding guards in the sport, and he especially shined in that department when the Knicks won the battle on the boards by 11 points.
“Just try to get the ball,” he said. “clearly, [Isaiah Hartenstein] I was fighting that monster. [Joel Embiid] That side. So I was able to swoop down and grab something, and then I was able to play fast and go into the break. ”
