New York Knicks guard Josh Hart and guard Jordan Clarkson steal the ball from Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic
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New York Knicks guard Josh Hart and guard Jordan Clarkson steal the ball from Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic at Crypto.com Arena.
The New York Knicks may be without one of their most versatile players on Sunday as Josh Hart is listed as questionable with left knee soreness ahead of their matchup against the Golden State Warriors.
Hart has already missed the Knicks’ last two games while dealing with the knee issue, and his availability remains uncertain as New York prepares for the home contest at Madison Square Garden.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Hart, the Knicks are expected to receive a boost elsewhere in the lineup. Karl-Anthony Towns is set to return after sitting out Friday’s win over the Indiana Pacers because of bilateral knee soreness.
Towns’ return restores New York’s All-Star center to the lineup as the Knicks continue their push toward the top of the Eastern Conference standings.
Hart’s Injury Status Adds Context to Viral Tweet
Hart’s health became an unexpected talking point on social media earlier when teammate Jeremy Sochan posted what appeared to be a concerned message about the veteran wing.
“Josh, are you okay fam? What happened? 🥺🥺🥺,” Sochan wrote on X.
Given Hart’s knee issue and recent absence from the lineup, the message initially looked like a teammate checking in on his health.
But the tweet ultimately had nothing to do with basketball.
Instead, it was a playful jab tied to English Premier League soccer — specifically a result involving Hart’s favorite club.
Arsenal Win, Chelsea Loss Sparked the Joke
Sochan, an avid supporter of Arsenal F.C., posted the message shortly after a pair of Premier League results went in opposite directions for the two players’ teams.
Arsenal defeated Everton F.C. 2–0, while Hart’s favorite club, Chelsea F.C., suffered a 1–0 loss to Newcastle United F.C.
With Arsenal celebrating a victory and Chelsea falling to Newcastle, Sochan used the moment to poke fun at his Knicks teammate.
Hart has long been open about his allegiance to Chelsea, frequently posting about the club and following Premier League matches closely.
Warriors Injuries Could Factor Into Knicks’ Decision
Hart’s status will likely be evaluated closer to tipoff, and the circumstances of Sunday’s matchup could influence how cautious the Knicks choose to be.
The Warriors are dealing with significant injuries entering the game, with several key players unavailable, including Stephen Curry (knee), Draymond Green (back), Jimmy Butler (ACL), Al Horford (calf), De’Anthony Melton (knee), Seth Curry (hip) and Kristaps Porziņģis (illness management).
With Golden State significantly shorthanded, the Knicks could opt to remain cautious with Hart’s recovery rather than rush him back before he is fully comfortable.
Knicks Monitoring Hart’s Availability
Hart has been one of New York’s most reliable contributors this season thanks to his versatility, rebounding ability and defensive intensity.
He last appeared in the Knicks’ 126–118 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers, finishing with 12 points on 5-of-7 shooting while adding 13 rebounds and three assists in 36 minutes.
His ability to impact multiple areas of the game — particularly on the glass from the wing position — has made him a key piece in New York’s rotation.
For now, the Knicks will wait to see whether Hart’s knee soreness improves enough for him to suit up Sunday.