Josh Hart Reflects on Knicks’ Strategy Against Spurs in NBA Finals
New York Knicks star Josh Hart observed that the San Antonio Spurs faced challenges before the NBA Finals even began. Hart, 31, pointed to the Spurs’ exuberant celebration after defeating the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 7 of the Western Conference Finals as a critical moment.
During a recent episode of “The Roommates Show” with teammate Jalen Brunson, Hart shared insights from their chat at Madison Square Garden. Hart noted that after overcoming the defending champions, the Spurs felt triumphant. He mentioned that Victor Wembanyama, a key Spurs player, was emotional following the victory.
Hart remarked, “Everyone’s talking about how they have to beat OKC. OKC was expected to repeat. But after the Spurs overcame them, their reaction was telling. That emotional high appeared to make them feel as if they had already won it all.”
New York Knicks forward Josh Hart looks on after their victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 3 of the 2026 Eastern Conference Finals at Rocket Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. (David Richard/Imagn Images)
Hart contrasted the Spurs’ reaction with the Knicks’ mentality after they swept the Cleveland Cavaliers, marking the Knicks’ first NBA Finals appearance since 1999. “You look at our reaction after beating Cleveland. It was hard to celebrate because we knew there was more to achieve. Winning the Eastern Conference was a big accomplishment, but it was merely a step forward.”
San Antonio Spurs forward Keldon Johnson shoots as New York Knicks guard Josh Hart defends during Game 4 of the NBA Finals in New York. (Al Bello/AP)
Hart’s observation proved accurate. Throughout the series, the youthful Spurs squandered double-digit leads in all four of their losses to the Knicks. The Knicks’ determination and resilience were key, resulting in three of the five largest comebacks in NBA Finals history during this series.
New York Knicks guard Josh Hart celebrates during the NBA championship parade in New York. (Heather Khalifa/AP)
The Knicks maintained a steady mindset, resetting their focus after each game by viewing the series as “0-0.” Hart delivered strong performances, emphasizing defense while contributing effectively on offense. Over 19 playoff games, Hart averaged 10.4 points, 8.9 rebounds, 4.6 assists, and 1.7 steals per game.