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NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MAY 29: Josh Hart #3 and Jalen Brunson #11 of the New York Knicks talk against the Indiana Pacers during the third quarter in Game Five of the Eastern Conference Finals of the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Madison Square Garden on May 29, 2025 in New York City.
The New York Knicks head into their next matchup with uncertainty around a key piece of their rotation.
As New York prepares to face the Atlanta Hawks on the road, the latest injury report delivers a mixed update and may force head coach Mike Brown to adjust his lineups again.
The Knicks have leaned on flexibility and depth throughout the season. This latest development tests that approach by removing one of their most dependable connectors.
Josh Hart Ruled Out
Josh Hart will miss the game with an ankle sprain.
Hart suffered the injury during the Knicks’ recent win and will not suit up against Atlanta. His absence matters given the role he plays across multiple lineups. He stabilizes units, fills gaps defensively, and creates extra possessions through hustle.
The early ruling points to caution rather than a rushed return. Brown now must replace Hart’s minutes, rebounding, and defensive versatility without a true like-for-like option.
Miles McBride Trending Toward a Return
Despite Hart’s absence, the injury report includes some encouraging news for the Knicks.
Miles McBride moved up to questionable as he continues working back from his ankle injury. He has not played since early December, but the status change hints at a possible return.
Before the injury, McBride had settled into his most consistent role yet. He provided perimeter shooting, on-ball defense, and reliable decision-making alongside Jalen Brunson.
In the meantime, Tyler Kolek stepped into a larger role and delivered. He has averaged 18 points over his last two games and finished Christmas Day as a team-high plus-24. Even if McBride returns, Kolek’s recent stretch has strengthened New York’s guard depth and expanded the coaching staff’s options.
What It Means for the Knicks
The Knicks already reshuffle combinations frequently, and injuries continue to drive that trend.
Without Hart, New York may rely more on wing depth and guard-driven lineups. Players like Mikal Bridges and OG Anunoby could take on added defensive responsibility. Atlanta’s pace and perimeter scoring will challenge New York’s communication and transition defense, especially if the rotation tightens.
If McBride cannot play, Tyler Kolek is likely to step into another extended role as New York adjusts its backcourt minutes.
Final Word for the Knicks
The Knicks have navigated stretches like this before, but every absence narrows the margin.
Josh Hart’s absence removes a connective piece. The glue guy. Miles McBride’s potential return could ease that loss, while Tyler Kolek’s emergence has added depth at the right time.
For New York, the task stays the same. Adjust quickly. Stay organized. And keep finding ways to win.
Keith Watkins Keith Watkins is a sports journalist covering the NBA for Heavy.com, with a focus on the Golden State Warriors, Boston Celtics, and Los Angeles Lakers. He previously wrote for FanSided, NBA Analysis Network, and Last Word On Sports. Keith is based in Bangkok, Thailand. More about Keith Watkins
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