The clock is ticking on Josh Hart. He became extension eligible on August 10, and the Knicks need to act fast. It’s about locking in a piece that fits the championship core perfectly.
A new deal could cost the team big money, but it might be the smartest move they make all summer.
The Right Price for the Right Player
James L. Edwards III of The Athletic reported that a league source sees a three-year extension worth $54 to $62 million as the sweet spot. That range puts Hart at roughly $18 to $20 million per season. Those numbers sound high, but they match what other top role players make. Derrick White and Dillon Brooks both clear $20 million a year, with White nearing $30 million. Hart isn’t a superstar, yet he handles the dirty work that stars refuse to touch. Paying him like a premium role player is fair.
Hart has shown he can handle the pressure. His postseason run had highs and lows. He dropped a massive game two in the Eastern Conference Finals and a 15-rebound, three-point masterpiece in Game one of the Finals. But he also struggled in Game one of the Conference Finals and was benched down the stretch. He was one missed tip-in away from a devastating loss. Despite the rollercoaster, he remains vital to the team.
Why Hart Wants to Stay
Hart is 31 years old. At this stage in a career, stability matters more than chasing a few extra dollars. New York seems to be the home he seeks, according to his statements. The fanbase respects him even when they yell. He plays with Jalen Brunson, his closest friend. He has grown his brand and signed better endorsement deals while wearing the orange and blue (a smart move for any player looking to build long-term wealth). Avoiding the chaos of unrestricted free agency is a huge win for him. He can keep doing what he does best without the stress of the market.
The Knicks know they need him. The source cited by Edwards said the deal would be a “happy medium for both sides.” That phrase says it all. Both parties get what they need. Hart gets security and a familiar home. The Knicks get a guy who will run through a wall for them. It is a match made in heaven for a team trying to repeat.
The Risk of Waiting
If the Knicks wait too long, the price goes up. Hart could ask for more money, especially after a championship run. He might look at what White and Brooks make and want his fair share.
