The New York Knicks have encountered a challenging stretch, suffering their second consecutive loss with a 115-98 defeat to the Charlotte Hornets.
This downturn has adjusted their season record to 43-26, positioning them third in the Eastern Conference.
In the matchup against the Hornets, the Knicks struggled both offensively and defensively.
LaMelo Ball led Charlotte with 25 points and eight assists, while Mark Williams added a double-double with 19 points and 14 rebounds.
The Knicks' defense faltered, allowing the Hornets to dominate the paint and control the boards.
This loss followed a similar performance against the San Antonio Spurs, where the Knicks were defeated 120-105.
In that game, the team struggled with shooting efficiency and defensive lapses, highlighting a concerning trend in their recent performances.
New York Knicks players Josh Hart and Karl-Anthony Towns. © Brad Penner-Imagn Images © Brad Penner-Imagn Images
Josh Hart raises the alarm on big Knicks issue
Reflecting on these setbacks, Hart expressed deep concern about the team's mental toughness and effort.
He emphasized the need for increased intensity and accountability, starting with himself.
"Mental toughness. That's my big concern right now. We can make all the excuses in the world. There's highs & lows in the season, no one's 82-0, but the way we're losing games is embarrassing," Hart said.
"We have to find a way to right the ship. We gotta come out next game w more intensity, desperation. Starts w myself––as someone who's supposed to bring energy I've been atrocious last several weeks."
Josh Hart: "Mental toughness. That's my big concern right now. We can make all the excuses in the world. There's highs & lows in the season, no one's 82-0, but the way we're losing games is embarrassing. We have to find a way to right the ship. We gotta come out next game w more… pic.twitter.com/iGu1vF8mGA
— New York Basketball (@NBA_NewYork) March 21, 2025
Hart also dismissed potential excuses related to the team's grueling travel schedule, noting that all teams face similar challenges. He pointed out that if the team were mentally prepared, they could have secured victories in these recent games
"We have to get our minds prepared for the end of the season…We can make excuses–terrible 2.5 weeks of travel–but all teams go through [that], not an excuse. If we're right mentally, we win some of these games. But we're not doing what it takes. Not doing the extra effort, giving energy, the right output, we're crying to refs. We gotta pick it up"
The Knicks have been dealing with the absence of key player Jalen Brunson due to an ankle injury, which has impacted their performance. Since his injury, the team has recorded a 3-4 record.
Head coach Tom Thibodeau has emphasized collective accountability and expressed hope for Brunson's return.
They face the NBA's worst team, the Washington Wizards, next, where they hope to redeem themselves.
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This story was originally published March 21, 2025 at 11:17 AM.