Knicks remove minutes limit on Hart; McBride out for personal reasons, Anunoby says cramps only, Kolek fills larger role
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The New York Knicks will no longer restrict Josh Hart’s playing time, according to The Athletic’s James L. Edwards III. Hart missed most of the preseason with back spasms and continues to deal with a finger issue expected to linger throughout the year, but he returned in Friday’s victory over Boston and logged fewer than 19 minutes.
Hart scored just three points on 1-for-8 shooting yet grabbed 14 rebounds and handed out three assists without committing a turnover. Head coach Mike Brown called the forward’s effort “phenomenal,” praising his six offensive boards and all-around energy. Hart labeled the performance “a solid first day at the office” and noted he is still rebuilding his conditioning after the extended layoff.
McBride skips trip to Miami
Miles McBride did not accompany the club to Miami on Sunday, the New York Post’s Stefan Bondy reported. The guard is away for personal reasons and his status for the remaining two games of the current road swing is unclear. McBride started the previous contest in place of resting center Mitchell Robinson and finished with 10 points, four assists and four rebounds.
Anunoby attributes early exit to cramps
OG Anunoby, who left Friday’s game early, said the issue was cramping rather than the ankle problem that bothered him during the preseason, per Peter Botte of the New York Post. Anunoby practiced Friday, and Brown told reporters he could have re-entered the matchup if necessary, SNY’s Ian Begley added.
Kolek steps in after Brogdon retirement
Second-year guard Tyler Kolek has assumed a larger role following Malcolm Brogdon’s surprise retirement. Brown liked Kolek’s defensive showing against Boston, saying the 23-year-old “was really good offensively” during his initial stretch and expects him to improve with experience. Kolek credited his time observing games alongside veteran Cameron Payne last season for helping him better understand the point-guard position.
Source: Hoops Rumors
