Josh Hart believes the New York Knicks will enter their title defense with something to prove rather than carrying the pressure typically associated with being reigning NBA champions.
During an appearance on ESPN’s U.S. Open coverage Wednesday, Hart was asked whether winning the championship had placed a target on New York entering the new season. He pointed to the lack of widespread expectations for the Knicks to repeat.
“I don’t think we have a big target,” Hart told Chris Fowler and John McEnroe during Alexander Zverev’s quarterfinal win over Botic van de Zandschulp.
“Because I don’t think anyone is picking us to win again.”
New York is coming off its first NBA championship in 53 years, but much of the offseason attention has shifted toward other contenders. Philadelphia added LeBron James and Jaylen Brown, while Miami acquired Giannis Antetokounmpo.
The Knicks instead largely kept their championship roster together. Mitchell Robinson, who joined the Boston Celtics, was the most significant departure from the group that defeated the San Antonio Spurs in five games in the NBA Finals.
With the Spurs and Oklahoma City Thunder entering the season as the betting favorites, Hart is comfortable seeing New York remain outside the spotlight.
“We’re using it as fuel,” Hart said. “We’re still the hunters. We’re not satisfied with one. The next goal is to get another. We’re the hunters, and we like playing that game.”
Hart played an important role in New York’s championship season, averaging 12 points, 7.4 rebounds and 4.8 assists. He also emphasized the unselfish approach that has helped the Knicks succeed alongside Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns.
“For us, it’s about helping each other,” Hart said. “We’re all high-character guys. We realized if everyone is willing to sacrifice, you don’t have egos, you’re not selfish, you’re gonna get far. You’re gonna get where you want to go at the end of the season.”
