When you think of what the ultimate sacrificial lamb should look like for any NBA team, the New York Knicks have Josh Hart. Hart finished last night’s 119-102 win against the Washington Wizards with yet another stellar performance, posting 12 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists on 71.4% shooting from the field and 50% from three.

It’s no secret Hart will let the other team know he means business. Whether it’s shouting at referees, asking for foul calls, or flexing on his defender after a tough layup, Hart is simply the “glue guy” on New York’s roster. When speaking about how his emotions have played a role in what he produces night in and night out, Hart wasn’t beating around the bush.

Hart’s Postgame Comments

"It's what makes me me. There's a good side to it and also, at times, there's a bad side to it. Chicago was a bad side. I was visibly upset, my body language was terrible. I was frustrated and I've got to take accountability for that. I was terrible."

Speaking on his performance on Halloween night against the Bulls — a game that saw him attempt just one field goal across 15 minutes of action — it’s clear that his drive to be aggressive and his ability to take a step back are two key differences in his game.

In the team’s past two contests, fans have seen a more ball-dominant version of Hart they’ve been waiting for all along, as he’s averaged 13.0 points, 9.5 rebounds, and four assists in 26 minutes.

So, what changed?

One of the biggest defenders players face on a nightly basis is the haters — or doubters, if you prefer. These are the individuals who are quick to turn on their favorite star the moment he falls short of expectations. It’s a small sample size, but across his first four games of the season, Hart averaged just 2.8 points on sub-22% shooting from both the field and beyond the arc.

Hart’s simple adjustment — focusing on what he can control versus what he can’t — might’ve made all the difference. Tweaking the mechanics of his mindset is something he can control; changing whether fans are on his side is another story.

"That's the one thing about me: I wear my heart on my sleeve. I've got to try to control it. I've been trying for 30 years now. I've got to make sure, no matter what the situation, I'm breathing life into these guys and not taking life."

Hart’s recent efforts have translated into winning basketball. The Knicks look to keep their undefeated streak at home intact through the next five games — a stretch that should see Hart continue his dominance.