Knicks news: Josh Hart gets 100% real on finger surgery options

Josh Hart has been candid about his finger surgery options, stating that he does not wish to undergo joint replacement surgery. In a recent social media post, the Knicks guard revealed that if he were to undergo the procedure, he would not be able to continue playing and his career would be over. Therefore, he has opted to wrap the injured finger until he retires.

The injury occurred during the 2025 playoffs when Hart strained his ring finger while playing in New York's Eastern Conference Finals run. He initially had surgery in July of that year, but re-aggravated the injury before the start of training camp. Doctors suggested another surgery, which would have resulted in a two to three month absence from the game.

Hart declined the surgery and instead wore a splint, enabling him to play through the entire championship season. Despite the discomfort, Hart's performance remained strong, shooting 41.3% from three last season, a notable improvement from the previous year's 33.3%. The decision not to undergo surgery has set Hart apart from his teammates, who have handled similar situations differently.

While Jalen Brunson played through a left wrist injury during the playoffs and underwent surgery in the offseason, Hart chose to prioritize his career and longevity. Hart's decision carries significant implications beyond the current season. He earns a $20.9 million salary this year with a team option for $22.4 million in 2027-28, and is eligible for an extension worth up to $132 million over four years.

Given the potential impact on his contract worth, durability becomes a crucial factor in determining the final number for his contract. As Hart has made it clear that he has missed only a handful of games since joining the Knicks in 2023, his focus on maintaining his durability is evident. The injury has generated considerable attention, and Hart's stance on it has provided clarity for both the team and the public.