NEW YORK — New York Knicks guard Josh Hart said he pushed the coaching staff to let him defend CJ McCollum, a decision he believes turned the tide of the teams’ ongoing series.
Speaking on May 1, 2026, Hart explained that he approached head coach Tom Thibodeau before the most recent game and insisted on taking the primary assignment against McCollum. “That’s the challenge I wanted,” Hart told reporters.
Hart’s matchup request came after McCollum had been productive earlier in the series. Once Hart took over the defensive duties, New York limited McCollum’s scoring opportunities and swung momentum in its favor. Teammates credited Hart’s energy for sparking a stronger overall defensive effort.
The Knicks now hold an edge in the best-of-seven set, with the next contest scheduled for Madison Square Garden. Hart said he plans to continue guarding McCollum as long as the series lasts. “If they need me on him, I’m there,” he added.
Source: New York Post
