The New York Knicks have steadily become one of the league’s top teams, and it’s partially because of their glue guy.
Over the past few years, the Knicks have turned into a title contender. After going from a playoff team to a fringe contender, the Knicks made their first Eastern Conference Finals since 2000 and enter next season as one of the favorites to make the NBA Finals.
While Tom Thibodeau has been replaced with Mike Brown, the Knicks will bring back most of their core from last season while adding some solid role players in free agency. Although the stars such as Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns steal the spotlight, the Knicks have a hidden gem in Josh Hart.
In a recent Bleacher Report article, Dan Favale tabbed Hart as one of the five most underrated players of the 2020s. Considering how much Hart has meant to the Knicks, it’s hard to argue that sentiment.
As a glue guy who embodies the New York basketball spirit, Hart took little time to become a favorite among fans in Madison Square Garden. Add in his chemistry with his college teammates, and he has been a perfect fit for the Knicks since arriving in 2023.
Favale particularly focused on Hart’s ability to hit the defensive glass and rack up assists and steals. His placement in those categories puts him in company with some of the best in the league.
Considering he brings all of that as a role player who doesn’t need the ball in his hands to succeed, he could arguably be the best non-star wing for a championship contender.
