Knicks' Josh Hart to Sit Out vs. Nets Due to Right Knee Issue

Knicks will be shorthanded for matchup against crosstown rivals

Mar. 20, 2026 at 6:09am

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The New York Knicks will be without forward Josh Hart for their upcoming game against the Brooklyn Nets due to a right knee issue. Hart, who had his best offensive game of the season earlier this week, is dealing with patella femoral syndrome in his right knee, which is different from the left knee soreness that sidelined him last week. The Knicks will get point guard Jalen Brunson back after he missed the last game, but they'll be looking to extend their 13-game winning streak against the Nets.

Why it matters

The Knicks-Nets rivalry is always a highly anticipated matchup, and the Knicks will be looking to continue their recent dominance over their crosstown rivals. However, the absence of Josh Hart, who has been a key contributor this season, could make it more challenging for the Knicks to maintain their winning ways against the Nets.

The details

Josh Hart will miss the Knicks' game against the Nets due to patella femoral syndrome in his right knee, which is different from the left knee soreness that caused him to miss two games last week. Hart had his best offensive performance of the season in the Knicks' previous game, scoring a season-high 33 points. The Knicks will get Jalen Brunson back after he missed the last game due to right ankle management and a neck strain. The Knicks carry a 13-game winning streak against the Nets into Friday's game.

  • The Knicks and Nets will face off on Friday, March 20, 2026.

The players

Josh Hart

A forward for the New York Knicks who is dealing with a right knee issue and will miss the upcoming game against the Nets.

Jalen Brunson

The Knicks' starting point guard who will return to the lineup after missing the last game due to right ankle management and a neck strain.

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What they’re saying

“No comment. We're gonna focus on winning the game then moving on from there. I don't care about the streak.”

— Jalen Brunson

“That's what New York can do for you: get you in commercials. My agent called me and said, 'We've got a special thing, do you want to be in a commercial?' I said 'Yeah,' I didn't know who was going to be in the commercial at first. But the commercial came out pretty dope.”

— Jose Alvarado, Knicks Player

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.