The New York Knicks continued their impressive run, securing back-to-back wins against the Washington Wizards with a win Monday night, their eighth straight win overall. The standout performance came from Josh Hart, who delivered a dominant triple-double to lead the Knicks to victory.
Hart’s stellar stat line of 23 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists showcased his versatility and impact on both ends of the court. His efficiency was evident as he shot 7-of-15 from the field, including an impressive 4-of-8 from beyond the arc. Hart’s ability to get to the free-throw line was also crucial, as he went 5-of-7 from the charity stripe. His 17-point second quarter gave the Knicks the jolt in the arm that they needed as the rest of the offense was struggling.
What made Hart’s performance even more remarkable were the intangible contributions that don’t always show up in the box score. His hustle plays, including a spectacular save on the baseline that led to a Precious Achiuwa layup, exemplified the energy and effort he brings to the team.
This triple-double marked Hart’s ninth as a Knick, surpassing Julius Randle on the franchise’s all-time list. It’s worth noting that Hart has achieved this feat in less than two full seasons with the team, highlighting his immediate impact since joining New York.
The Bench Steps Up
While the Knicks’ bench has struggled to contribute offensively this season, ranking last in the NBA in bench scoring, there were positive signs in this game. Deuce McBride, in particular, showed flashes of his potential, finishing with 8 points, 6 assists, and 3 steals in just 18 minutes of play.
McBride’s defensive intensity was on full display, as he made several key plays, including a steal that led to an easy layup reminiscent of Pablo Prigioni’s signature move. His ability to navigate screens and disrupt the opposing team’s offense provided a much-needed spark off the bench.
The emergence of players like McBride and the continued development of the bench unit will be crucial for the Knicks as they look to maintain their winning streak and solidify their position in the Eastern Conference standings.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Knicks’ recent success, tune into the Locked On Knicks podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Knicks Podcast:
• Karl-Anthony Towns’ efficient 32-point performance
• Jalen Brunson and Mikal Bridges’ contributions despite shooting struggles
• The impact of the Knicks’ bench and potential trade considerations
