Josh Hart Questionable for Knicks vs. Celtics Showdown

BOSTON — The New York Knicks face a pivotal matchup against the Boston Celtics on Sunday, February 23, with Josh Hart upgraded from out to questionable due to a knee injury. Hart, who missed the last two games, could return just as the Knicks (37-19) look to recover from a humiliating loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Hart’s absence was felt in the previous game, where the Knicks struggled in transition. His status changed after he presumably joined the team in Boston, giving fans hope for his return in this crucial Eastern Conference clash. This marks the first time in Hart’s Knicks career that he has missed consecutive games.

Joining Hart on the injury report is OG Anunoby, who is also listed as questionable with a sprained foot. Anunoby appeared to aggravate the injury during the third quarter against the Cavaliers, but he insisted postgame that he was not reinjured and simply experienced a “misstep.”

Mitchell Robinson remains sidelined as he continues to recover from ankle surgery. Robinson returned to practice last week but stated he wants to ensure he is “100 percent ready” before returning to game action. “I’ve just been taking my time. I want to make sure it’s 100 percent, I ain’t trying to keep having these sit-outs and setbacks,” Robinson said. “This time, I’m just going to play it smart.”

The Knicks last faced the Celtics in October, when rookie Pacome Dadiet made a surprising addition to the roster. However, by Game 3, Dadiet was sidelined and later sent to the G-League. In a recent interview, Dadiet shared his adjustment to the NBA game, saying, “Watching [Karl-Anthony Towns and Cam Payne] doing the same thing every day. And it’s working for them.”

Meanwhile, Celtics’ star Jayson Tatum is expected to play, providing a significant boost to Boston (40-16) in their pursuit of maintaining the top seed in the Eastern Conference. Tatum, averaging 26.8 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game, is crucial for the team’s offensive and defensive strategies.

Boston’s only injury concern is Xavier Tillman, who is day-to-day with a knee issue. Tatum’s health significantly enhances Boston’s roster depth, making this matchup even more critical for the Knicks, who will be seeking a key victory without their starting center.

The game is set to air at 1:00 PM ET on ABC and ESPN+, promising an exciting duel between the two teams as they gear up for potential playoff implications.