Josh Hart Drops Update on Shaky Future With Knicks

Josh Hart has already etched his name into New York Knicks history as a key contributor to the franchise’s long-awaited championship.

Now, as the forward becomes eligible for a contract extension, questions about his long-term future with the team have moved to the forefront. For Hart, the preference is clear: he wants to remain in New York for the rest of his career.

In an with Heavy.com, Hart expressed his strong desire to stay with the Knicks.

“Obviously, that’s always something that you think of,” Hart said. “I love New York. I love being here. Obviously, it would be amazing to end my career here.”

The statement marks his most direct public indication yet of where he hopes his NBA journey concludes, even as the organization begins navigating the complex financial landscape of retaining a championship core.

Hart became eligible for an extension earlier this month and could theoretically sign a deal worth up to four years and $132 million. League sources, however, suggest a more realistic range might settle around three years and $54 million to $62 million, with some projections placing a potential agreement near $60 million to $62 million over that span.

Others argue his market value could support a higher figure, closer to $70 million or $80 million, given the deals secured by similar high-impact complementary players across the league. This season, Hart is set to earn $20.9 million, with the Knicks holding a team option slightly above $22 million for the following year, giving both sides room to negotiate carefully.

At 31, soon to turn 32, Hart is coming off one of the most productive seasons of his career. He averaged over 14 points while shooting better than 50 percent from the field and a career-best 41.3 percent from three-point range, all while logging heavy minutes and serving as an emotional anchor for a roster built around Jalen Brunson. His impact extends well beyond traditional statistics—he rebounds at an elite level for his size, provides positional versatility, and has become a steadying presence in the locker room.

Yet the negotiations carry complications. Knicks owner James Dolan has drawn a firm line against crossing the NBA’s second apron, a stance that already contributed to the departure of Mitchell Robinson.

With Karl-Anthony Towns eligible for an extension, Mikal Bridges locked into a substantial long-term deal, OG Anunoby under a high-value contract, and Brunson eventually due another significant payday, the financial puzzle remains tight.

Hart has never commanded the same salary level as the other primary starters, leaving him to balance personal security against the sacrifices that might help keep the championship group intact.

Still, Hart remains optimistic about the core’s future. He believes the team has taken steps to retain most of its key pieces and senses a continued hunger among his teammates.

The Knicks are no longer chasing their first title in decades—they are focused on repeating while the Eastern Conference grows stronger.

For Hart, the desire to finish his career in New York appears unwavering, even as the dollars and details of his next contract remain unresolved.