Knicks’ Josh Hart Had Classy Message About Not Starting Game 3…..

**Knicks’ Josh Hart Had Classy Message About Not Starting Game 3**

*May 26, 2025 — New York, NY* — New York Knicks swingman Josh Hart has never been one to make headlines for the wrong reasons, and his latest comments following a major lineup change in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals only reinforce his reputation as the consummate professional.

After starting every playoff game leading up to Saturday night, Hart came off the bench in Game 3 against the Boston Celtics, a move that caught fans and media alike by surprise. But instead of expressing frustration or confusion, Hart responded with maturity and team-first humility — a reflection of the culture the Knicks have worked hard to build under head coach Tom Thibodeau.

Speaking to reporters after the game, Hart addressed the decision with class and clarity.

> “Look, we’re all trying to win. That’s the only goal that matters,” Hart said. “If Coach thinks we’ve got a better chance with me coming off the bench, then I’m all in. I’ll play five minutes, I’ll play forty — doesn’t matter. I trust this team, and we trust each other. That’s what being part of something bigger than yourself looks like.”

### A Surprising Change

The move came as part of a tactical adjustment by Thibodeau, who opted to start veteran sharpshooter Donte DiVincenzo in Hart’s place to stretch the floor against Boston’s elite perimeter defense. DiVincenzo delivered with 14 points and four three-pointers in a tightly contested game the Knicks narrowly lost, 102-98.

Hart, meanwhile, logged 28 minutes off the bench, finishing with 6 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists — plus his usual dose of energy, hustle, and defensive versatility. While his numbers may not have been eye-popping, his impact was felt on both ends of the court, especially during key stretches in the second half.

### Locker Room Leader

It’s no secret that Hart has become one of the Knicks’ emotional leaders since arriving via trade from Portland in 2023. Known for his toughness, versatility, and willingness to do the dirty work, he’s embraced the identity of the Knicks — gritty, resilient, and unselfish. Hart’s response to losing his starting role only further cements his leadership within the locker room.

Teammates were quick to praise Hart for his attitude.

> “Josh is all heart, man. That’s why we love him,” said Jalen Brunson, who played college ball with Hart at Villanova and now shares the backcourt with him in New York. “He didn’t blink. No ego. Just came in, played his role, did what we needed. That’s what makes this team special.”

Julius Randle, recovering from shoulder surgery and watching from the sidelines, echoed those sentiments.

> “When your guys are locked in like that, when nobody’s complaining or sulking, that’s how you build something real. Josh is a big part of our core for a reason.”

### Thibodeau’s Trust

Coach Tom Thibodeau was asked postgame about the decision to alter the starting lineup and the impact on Hart. As expected, he praised the 29-year-old’s professionalism.

> “Josh is the ultimate team guy. He’s going to do whatever’s needed,” Thibodeau said. “We needed a little different look to start the game — more spacing, more shooting — and Josh handled it like a pro. He still played a big role for us. That’s who he is.”

Thibodeau didn’t rule out further adjustments ahead of Game 4, hinting that matchups and momentum would dictate future starting decisions. Hart’s response, though, has given the coaching staff full confidence in their flexibility going forward.

### Bigger Than Basketball

Hart’s maturity shines even brighter when viewed in the context of playoff basketball, where ego and minutes can often clash. The NBA postseason is notoriously intense, with emotions running high and rotations tightening. For a veteran player to accept a bench role in a conference final speaks volumes about Hart’s character.

His attitude also reflects the culture shift within the Knicks organization over the past few years — from dysfunction and inconsistency to discipline and identity. The team-first mentality is more than a slogan in New York now — it’s lived and embodied by players like Hart.

### Looking Ahead

With the Knicks trailing 2-1 in the best-of-seven series against the Celtics, every adjustment and every contribution becomes magnified. Game 4 at Madison Square Garden will be pivotal, and whether Josh Hart starts or comes off the bench, fans can be certain of one thing: he’ll give everything he’s got.

> “I’m just here to win,” Hart repeated. “That’s the only thing that matters. Whatever it takes.”

In a league often dominated by headlines about stat lines, contracts, and controversy, Josh Hart’s selfless approach is a refreshing reminder of what team sports are really about — sacrifice, trust, and putting the mission above the man.

And in New York, where grit and loyalty still mean something, that message couldn’t be classier — or more timely.

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