10/02/2026
Josh Hart was playing the 2025-26 season with a decision hanging over his career.
According to Fred Katz of The Athletic, Hartās injured finger now requires a āfull joint replacement.ā It's a procedure that would prevent him from playing basketball again.
So the 31-year-old Knicks forward chose to keep playing through the pain instead.
āI guess itās either wrap it till I retire (or) cut it off. I guess thatās the other option. So thatās really the only alternative: either joint replacement, let it go, or amputation.ā
Hart wore protection on the finger throughout the season and still played a pivotal role in New Yorkās historic championship run. Now, heās prepared to deal with the pain for the rest of his career rather than give up the game he loves.
That kind of sacrifice says everything about Hart.
Heās slated to make $20,923,760 next season, with a $22,375,280 team option for 2027-28.
Heās also eligible for a four-year extension worth roughly $132 million.
Whatever happens with that contract, Hart is already carving out his place in Knicks history.
By the time itās all said and done, the pain, the sacrifice, and the championship will make Josh Hart a New York legend.