• Josh Hart discussed why he returned to Knicks in 2023-24
• Hart opted into a player option despite having more lucrative options if he hit free agency
• He will earn $12.9 million in the 2023-24 season
The New York Knicks made a fantastic move last winter when they acquired Josh Hart from the Portland Trail Blazers. Hart instantly added energy to the Knicks and was pivotal in them reaching the second round of the playoffs.
Instead of testing the free agency market with high value, Hart opted into a $12.9 million option to help the Knicks have the money to sign Donte DiVincenzo. Hart has opened up on why he came back for another season in the Garden.
“It was a hard decision… I wanted to stay in New York, I wanted to give this team the team the chance to be the best team that it could be and help them compete. Opting in was definitely something that was going to help the team.”
NYK’s Josh Hart on opting in for ‘23-‘24: “I wanted to stay in New York, I wanted to give this team the … chance to the best team that it could be and help them compete. Opting in was definitely something that was going to help the team.” pic.twitter.com/SPCWvrgRMx
— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) August 4, 2023
Hart is clearly betting on himself to perform well enough to be in the mix for a big contract next season. If he left a $75 million contract on the table to return to the Knicks, he’ll be hoping to play his way into $100 million.
He averaged 10.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.4 steals in 25 appearances with the Knicks. The high-energy hustler fits perfectly into Tom Thibodeau’s defensive game plan.
The Knicks Have One Of The Most Interesting Cores In The NBA
The Knicks roster reads like one that is ripe and ready for a massive trade but the team will not jump the gun right now. Jalen Brunson seems to have solidified himself as a member of the long-term vision, but everyone else could possibly be sent in a trade for a superstar. Even if there’s no trade, the Knicks will be in contention among the East’s best teams next season.
Julius Randle is a guaranteed regular-season assassin at this point and the team will hope RJ Barrett continues to take forward steps in his development. Even with $18 million in deadweight with Evan Fournier, the team has a solid core featuring Mitchell Robinson, Immanuel Quickley, Quentin Grimes, and more.
This roster has been built with patience and care, with the Knicks another season closer to finally reaping the rewards of what they’ve built by making it an attractive destination for superstars around the league for the first time in decades.
We sincerely appreciate and respect you as a reader of our site. It would help us a lot if you follow us on Google News because of the latest update.
Thanks for following us. We really appreciate your support.
