Knicks' Josh Hart Steps Up with Clutch Performance to Even Series Against Heat

image source nypost.com

Josh Hart’s heroic performance in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference semifinal series between the Knicks and Heat provided the impetus for the Knicks to tie the series 1-1. The Knicks guard made a clutch 3-pointer with 1:38 left to push the team’s one-point lead to four. Hart then made significant plays on both ends of the floor for the rest of the game to help the Knicks seal a 111-105 win over the Heat on Tuesday night at Madison Square Garden.

Hart’s 3-pointer was similar to the one he made in Game 1 of the opening-round series against the Cavaliers that gave the Knicks the lead. He proved his ability to make the right play at the right time, whether it’s making a defensive rebound, getting to the lane, making the right pass, or knocking down the big shot.

“He didn’t hesitate. He stepped up and hit the shot that provided the impetus to get the Knicks even in this Eastern Conference semifinal series at 1-1 as it shifts to Miami this weekend,” the New York Post reported.

Despite struggling in the opener against the Heat, missing all four of his 3-point attempts, Hart didn’t lose his confidence. In Game 2, he produced a fantastic all-around game, scoring 14 points, grabbing 11 rebounds, and providing nine assists, along with a team-best plus-16 rating in 33 minutes.

“He did everything, and that’s who he is. We talk about the playmaking ability, the assists, the big 3s, the rebounds, the defense,” said coach Tom Thibodeau.

Hart played his trademark tough defense, as the Knicks held the Heat to 12 points over the final 7:06 of the fourth quarter. The Knicks rallied from six points down in the final 6:42 to avoid falling into a dreaded 0-2 hole as they head out to Miami. Hart scored 10 fourth-quarter points and added four big rebounds.

“In Josh’s case, he did everything, and that’s who he is. We talk about the playmaking ability, the assists, the big 3s, the rebounds, the defense,” Thibodeau said.

Hart has been an essential part of the Knicks since coming over at the trade deadline and reuniting with his close friend and former Villanova teammate Jalen Brunson. The Knicks are 21-10 since the move. Hart has helped them reach another level as a key contributor at both ends of the floor.

The Knicks now head to Miami for Games 3 and 4, and Hart's performance could provide the necessary momentum for the Knicks to take the series lead. If they do, they may look back at Hart’s 3-pointer in Game 2 the same way they remember his 3-pointer in Game 1 of the Cavaliers series.

In conclusion, Josh Hart’s stellar performance in Game 2 helped the Knicks avoid falling into a dreaded 0-2 hole in the Eastern Conference semifinal series against the Heat. He made a clutch 3-pointer, scored 10 fourth-quarter points, grabbed four big rebounds, and played his trademark tough defense in the final quarter. His all-around game has been a significant contribution to the Knicks since the trade deadline, and he has helped the team reach another level at both ends of the floor. The Knicks will now head to Miami for Games 3 and 4, hoping to continue their momentum and take the series lead.