NBA Notes: Knicks, Josh Hart, Thunder, Nikola Topic, Pistons

Knicks

The Knicks welcomed back Josh Hart after an eight-game absence caused by a right ankle injury suffered on Christmas Day, and the difference was noticeable.

New York went 3-5 without Hart and posted the league’s third-worst defensive rating during that stretch, writes ESPN’s Vincent Goodwill. Hart finished with 18 points and six rebounds in a 123-114 win at Portland, helping stabilize both ends of the floor.

Despite owner James Dolan recently stating he expects a Finals run with the current roster, league sources say the Knicks have been quietly exploring the market for a backup big man, per Goodwill. There has also been some openness to moving offseason signing Guerschon Yabusele as the trade deadline approaches.

Thunder

First-round pick Nikola Topic announced he is back on the court after completing a recent round of chemotherapy, as relayed by ESPN’s Anthony Slater.

The Serbian guard, selected 12th overall in the 2024 draft, was diagnosed with testicular cancer just before the season. He had already missed his rookie year while rehabbing an ACL tear but had been cleared for a preseason debut in early October, scoring 10 points in 31 minutes before stepping away following the diagnosis.

Pistons

Injuries have piled up for Detroit, Goodwill writes. Cade Cunningham has missed two straight games, while Jalen Duren and Tobias Harris have also been sidelined.

The Pistons are benefiting from four consecutive days off before Thursday’s game against Phoenix. Their recent 30-point win over the Knicks drew league-wide attention and added intrigue ahead of the trade deadline.

Detroit holds a $14 million trade exception that remains usable through July. According to Goodwill, the Pistons are expected to explore options for shooting help and a secondary scorer alongside Cunningham, particularly if a short-term addition fits their long-term financial picture.