Josh Hart ‘definitely getting close’ to making long-awaited return to Knicks lineup
NY Post
PHOENIX — Josh Hart, who has missed eight straight games with a sprained ankle, has progressed to taking contact in practice and is “definitely getting close” to returning, according to Mike Brown.
That update means Hart could play again as early as Sunday in Portland, and the Knicks need him. They’re 3-5 without Hart, including Friday’s 112-107 defeat to the Suns.
He watched the loss from the team bench.
Hart’s absence has created a playmaking hole, putting more onus on Jalen Brunson to handle the ball and absorb physical and pressing defenses.
Tyler Kolek, Mikal Bridges and Miles McBride struggled in that role Friday.
“Obviously, we’re trying to give some young guys an opportunity and some guys that aren’t in that situation an opportunity,” coach Mike Brown said. “And they’ve just got to do the best they can.”
LOS ANGELES — A day earlier, coach Mike Brown made an impassioned plea to his players to take care of the ball.
The Dolphins thanked Tua for his service and welcomed Willis.
PHILADELPHIA — Wins like this have been a rarity for the Rangers as of late.
TAMPA — There are players who overhaul mechanics during an offseason or spring training and then cram in every at-bat or inning they can, determined to feel comfortable before the games actually matter.
Daniel Jones received $40 million per season with the Giants.
If you like a sure thing and are uncomfortable with surprises or simply not knowing, what comes next might not be for you.
Most of the words Chris Drury said in July about defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov centered around the defensive side of the $49 million defenseman’s game. The Rangers president and general manager wanted to be better in front of their goaltenders. He wanted improved coverage in high-danger areas. And Gavrikov, inked to a seven-year deal at the start of free agency that month to pair with Adam Fox, possessed “qualities of an elite shutdown guy.”
PORT ST. LUCIE — The power has always been there for Ryan Weathers.
LOS ANGELES — Desperately searching for offense, the Knicks dusted off little-used guard Jordan Clarkson on Sunday.
LOS ANGELES — You may have noticed the recent shift in Jalen Brunson’s stat lines. It’s rather dramatic.
With about five weeks left in the NBA’s regular season, we have a pretty clear picture of the contenders for the Larry O’Brien Trophy.
The Eagles are keeping a core piece of the defense for the future.
For weeks, Vincent Trocheck spoke like a player who was prepared to be traded.