Josh Hart Suffers Scare in Knicks Preseason Opener — Leaves With Back Injury and Gets Ejected

The Knicks’ preseason debut was anything but smooth for Josh Hart, who managed to both exit with an injury and get ejected in the same play.

During Thursday’s 99-84 win over the 76ers, Hart grabbed a rebound and pushed the ball in transition before suddenly collapsing near the sideline. Wincing in pain and clutching his back, he hurled the ball into the stands in frustration while still on the floor — drawing an automatic ejection.

Injury Update: Day-to-Day

The initial scene looked grim, but postgame updates eased concern. The Knicks labeled it a sore lower back, day-to-day, with further clarity expected Friday. Hart also has been managing an issue with his surgically repaired right ring finger, which he re-aggravated before training camp.

Sixers coach Nick Nurse, who rushed to Hart’s side, admitted he feared the worst. “I thought something really bad happened,” Nurse said. “Those are always scary. He was in a lot of pain. Let’s hope he’s OK.”

Knicks coach Mike Brown echoed the cautious optimism. “He looked like he was in considerable pain,” Brown said. “But he’s day to day, and we’ll see how he feels tomorrow.”

Hart’s Role and Reaction

Hart started last season and set a franchise record for triple-doubles, surpassing Clyde Frazier, but he came off the bench Thursday as the Knicks tested a taller lineup with Mitchell Robinson. In just seven minutes of action, Hart posted two points and three rebounds before his early exit.

After the game, Hart lightened the mood with a humorous tweet, posting a clip from the movie Next Friday to describe his mindset.

For now, the Knicks will wait and see if the scare is nothing more than a brief preseason setback.