Knicks’ Hart Urges Team to Stop Complaining Before Game 3

DETROIT — New York Knicks player Josh Hart is calling for his team to stop complaining about officiating ahead of Game 3 against the Detroit Pistons. Hart pinpointed himself and teammate Karl-Anthony Towns as two players who need to focus on their game rather than protests over calls.

“It definitely takes you off your game. I think controlling it, that just comes from within,” Hart said. “We can’t control what they’re calling. We can just control how we respond to it.” His comments follow a controversial Game 2, where the Knicks faced significant officiating challenges.

The Knicks suffered a 100-94 defeat in Game 2, attempting their first free throw with just 17 seconds left in the first half. They finished the game with 19 free-throw attempts, while the Pistons had 34, marking the largest disparity of the Knicks’ season.

The NBA recognized an incorrect no-call on a potential Knicks go-ahead play, which added to the frustrations. Hart, along with coach Tom Thibodeau and teammates, often voiced their displeasure during the game.

“We’ve had a lack of focus when it comes to that,” said guard Jalen Brunson. “We’ve gotta let them do their job, and we’ve gotta do ours.” Thibodeau criticized the referees in a postgame interview, stating that consistency is needed in calls.

Pistons’ coach J.B. Bickerstaff addressed the free-throw discrepancy, noting that Brunson was among the top free-throw shooters in the playoffs. Despite complaints from Knicks fans, Brunson shot 11 free throws in the Game 2 match.

Hart noted the importance of focusing on the game rather than officiating. “I have to cut out the complaining and talking to refs,” he acknowledged. He has a history of technical fouls and is aware of how his frustrations can impact the team.

The Knicks aim to refocus their energy ahead of the pivotal Game 3. Hart emphasized the need to learn from past mistakes and move forward as they seek to level the playoff series.

As the teams prepare for Game 3, all eyes will be on how the Knicks address their frustrations on the court and whether they can channel that into a win.