Knicks fan-favorite makes shock decision

Hart's decision will come as a shock to most Knicks fans. During a recent interview with Bleacher Report's Taylor Rooks, the veteran wing hinted at opting out of his current deal to test his free agency market.

"We’ll probably decline that and do the free agency thing,” Hart said. “My first free agency, I was restricted, and it was a**."

However, it looks like Hart has decided to continue building up his value ahead of the 2024 free agency period. Since joining the Knicks, Hart has become an integral cog in their rotation. The 28-year-old injected new life into a roster that was starting to look stale. 

In 25 regular-season games for New York, Hart averaged 10.2 points, 7.0 rebounds and 3.6 assists while shooting 61.9% from two-point range and 51.9% from deep. While those shooting splits may be unsustainable throughout an 82-game season, Hart has an opportunity to seriously spike his value. 

Rarely do we see mid-season additions have the impact that Hart did on the Knicks. Rarer still do those players go on to make waves the following season. Hart is different, though. In Jalen Brunson, Hart is playing alongside his best friend. In Tom Thibodeau, the veteran wing has a coach who trusts and values his contributions to the team. And in New York, Hart has a role that accentuates everything he can bring to a rotation. 

Yes, Hart may have backtracked on his decision to become an unrestricted free agent this summer. Yet, it's clear that he's backing himself to drive up his market value ahead of next year. If the Villanova product can make good on his decision, the payoff will be beneficial to him and the Knicks organization.