Jun 5, 2026 1:00 PM

After making a difference on the court aside from scoring, Knicks guard Josh Hart is ready to put the Game 1 win behind him.

In Game 1 of the NBA Finals, the New York Knicks picked up right where they left off in the Eastern Conference Finals and beat the San Antonio Spurs 105-95. New York was down as much as 14 in the second half, but came back thanks to a 30-point effort from Jalen Brunson. 

This win marked the Knicks' 12th straight win in the postseason. After the game, multiple Knicks players credited their defense for leading to offense in their comeback win. 

Geoff Burke-Imagn ImagesGeoff Burke-Imagn Images

One player who was crucial on the defensive end was Josh Hart. Although he scored just 3 points, his 15 rebounds and defensive effort came up big when it mattered for New York. Hart has been known to have games where he's not a focal point on offense, but he has still found a way to make an impact on defense. 

After the game, Hart acknowledged that Game 1 was a good win, but knows it's time to regroup and prepare for San Antonio to come back with a sense of urgency in Game 2. 

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How Valuable Will Hart Be In the Finals?

Throughout the playoffs, Josh Hart has been an X-factor for the Knicks. In the postseason, he's averaged 10.9 points per game, 9.1 rebounds, and 4.7 assists. His most notable game was his 26-point effort against the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals.  

For the most part, a lot of Josh Hart's games throughout these playoffs have been similar to Game 1. His ability to get rebounds at his position, as well as his defensive presence on the perimeter, has been crucial for the Knicks. 

Geoff Burke-Imagn ImagesGeoff Burke-Imagn Images

Hart has had multiple double-digit rebound games, giving the Knicks a huge boost on the interior as well. His ability to get open for open shots will also make him a threat on offense every game, and the Spurs will have to keep an eye on him on both ends at all times. 

How Can the Knicks Sustain Their Success?

Josh Hart brought up an important point about Game 2. The Spurs will come out with a lot of energy and a sense of urgency, and it will be important for the Knicks to keep up with them. 

Geoff Burke-Imagn ImagesGeoff Burke-Imagn Images

If the Knicks want to steal another game on the road, it will have to be off the back of their defense and rebounding once again. They will also have to rely on Jalen Brunson to show up in the clutch. 

In Game 1, the Knicks had the advantage over San Antonio because they had a player who took matters into his own hands and won the game for them. Brunson will likely be called upon in a situation like that again, and if he can take over the game for the Knicks again, they're in good shape to win a championship. 

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