New York Knicks Star Reveals He Re-Aggravated Injury From Last Season; Plans To Play Through It In 2025-26 Season

The New York Knicks are entering the 2025-26 season with championship aspirations, backed by a fortified roster and high expectations. However, before training camp even begins, a key piece of their rotation has revealed a setback. Josh Hart, the team’s relentless heart and soul, confirmed that he re-aggravated a finger injury and intends to play through it for the entire season.

This article provides a detailed Josh Hart injury update for the New York Knicks, breaking down his comments on the situation, the potential impact this could have on his performance, and what his grit means for a team that prides itself on toughness.

New York Knicks Josh Hart Reveals Plan to “Rock Out with a Splint”

Speaking at the Knicks’ media day, Hart addressed the status of the right ring finger he initially injured during the team’s Eastern Conference Finals run against the Indiana Pacers last season. After undergoing a procedure in July to fix the issue, he unfortunately suffered a setback.

“I’m just trying to get used to it, and then get through the season with it,” Hart told reporters. “I don’t want to go into too much detail, but I obviously got a procedure on it and then kinda re-aggravated it somewhat recently. So probably just rock out with a splint this season and try to fix it again next summer.”

This revelation means that Hart, a player whose game is built on physicality, rebounding, and relentless hustle, may have to play the entire 82-game season and playoffs with added protection on his shooting hand. While concerning, Hart was quick to downplay the severity and express his commitment to being on the court.

“It’s something that a lot of people have,” Hart said. “I don’t think about it too much. I just try to go out there and play how I play, and if I can’t play how I play and be aggressive and kind of have that toughness mentality I normally play with, then I have to figure out a different path. But right now, the full expectation is to go out there and hoop and help this team be successful.”

The Potential Impact on Hart’s Performance

Josh Hart is not a player whose value is measured solely by his box score, but his production last season was a career best. He was a critical component of the Knicks’ success, averaging 13.6 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 5.9 assists while leading the league in minutes per game. A lingering finger injury, especially on his shooting hand, could impact several facets of his game.

Shooting and Ball Handling

The most obvious concern is how a splint will affect his shooting touch. While not a high-volume scorer, Hart is a capable shooter whose ability to knock down open shots is crucial for spacing the floor. Any discomfort or mechanical adjustment caused by the splint could affect his efficiency from the perimeter and the free-throw line. Ball handling and passing could also be affected, as a finger injury can make it difficult to control the ball with precision.

Rebounding Prowess

Hart’s most unique and valuable skill is his incredible rebounding ability for his size. At just 6’4″, he has an uncanny knack for crashing the boards, often outworking bigger players for contested rebounds. In last year’s playoffs, he averaged an astounding 12.3 rebounds per game. A finger injury could make securing tough rebounds more painful and difficult, potentially limiting his effectiveness in this vital area.

Durability and Tenacity

Hart has been a workhorse for the Knicks, playing in 77 games last season. His willingness to play through pain is a testament to his toughness, a quality that defines the team’s identity. However, playing with a pre-existing injury for an entire season carries risks. A direct hit to the hand could worsen the injury, potentially forcing him to miss time—a significant blow for a team that relies heavily on his energy and minutes.

What This Means for the Knicks’ Season

Hart’s decision to play through the injury is a double-edged sword for the Knicks. On one hand, it underscores the gritty, resilient culture that has made them a force in the East. On the other, it introduces a level of uncertainty for a key rotation player.

A Test of Depth

With Hart’s effectiveness potentially compromised, the Knicks may need to rely more heavily on their bench depth. The team made several offseason additions to bolster their second unit, and new head coach Mike Brown has indicated a plan to use a deeper nine- or ten-man rotation. This approach will be crucial in managing Hart’s minutes and ensuring he is not overworked while dealing with the injury.

A Leader by Example

Hart’s toughness sets the tone for the entire team. By committing to play through discomfort, he is leading by example and reinforcing the no-excuses mentality that the franchise has embraced. This attitude is infectious and will be invaluable as the team navigates the long and grueling NBA season. Even if his individual stats take a small dip, his presence and leadership on the court and in the locker room remain indispensable.

Hart jokingly addressed his role on the team amid trade rumors, stating, “If I don’t start, I’ll probably ask for a trade,” before clarifying his team-first mentality. “I think I deserve to be a starter in the league. But, at the end of the day, it’s what’s best for the team…it would be extremely selfish for me to go out there and demand to start.” This perfectly encapsulates his character and importance to the team’s chemistry.

Conclusion

The latest Josh Hart injury update for the New York Knicks is a testament to the player’s grit and dedication. While the prospect of him playing an entire season with a splint on his finger is a legitimate concern, his determination to be on the court for his teammates speaks volumes. His situation will be a key storyline to monitor as the season progresses. The team’s coaching and medical staff will need to carefully manage his health to ensure he is available and effective when it matters most—in the playoffs.

For now, Hart is ready to “rock out with a splint,” embodying the toughness that has become synonymous with New York Knicks basketball. His teammates and fans wouldn’t expect anything less.