NBA Free Agency: Stock-up, stock-down based on the first round of the NBA Playoffs
By Ian Levy
NBA Free Agency stock up: Josh Hart
It’s hard to overstate how big a difference the trade deadline acquisition of Josh Hart has been for the New York Knicks. They outscored opponents by 12.5 points per 100 possessions with him on the floor and went 17-9 after the deadline. His stats weren’t necessarily eye-popping in the first round against Cleveland but he made clear he’s an indispensable piece.
Hart absolutely swarmed Donovan Mitchell providing constant on-ball pressure and helping force his counterpart into an unusually passive and jumper-heavy shot selection. He averaged 11.6 points, 7.8 rebounds, 1.4 assists and 1.2 steals per game while hitting an uncharacteristically hot 5-of-11 from beyond the arc.
Hart unlocks a variety of lineups with his rebounding ability from the backcourt and defensive versatility. He’s a reliable passer and if he’s making outside shots it only makes him more dangerous as a connector at both ends of the floor. Given his relationship with former college teammate Jalen Brunson and the current wave of good vibes in New York, he seems extremely likely to re-sign with New York. But his play this postseason is making sure that his yearly salary is as fat as possible.