What happened: Hart said the finger is an issue he expects to keep managing rather than fixing with a joint replacement. He added that a replacement would end his career, and that the pain varies day to day.

Why it matters: The update matters as the same Josh Hart who joined the Knicks' title parade celebration heads into the 2026-27 season as a key New York rotation piece. Ongoing hand pain could affect rebounding traffic, ball security and catches in contact even if he stays available.

What to watch: Watch for any change in Hart's practice or preseason workload as camp moves along. Further updates from Hart or the Knicks would show whether the finger remains a day-to-day management issue or turns into a formal limitation.