JOSH HART RULES OUT SURGERY ON INJURED RIGHT RING FINGER

New York Knicks guard Josh Hart has ruled out further surgery on his injured right ring finger, after renewed social media attention. Newsday NBA columnist Steve Popper posted a photograph on X of Hart training with the finger taped, writing that Hart "did not have surgery" this year. The post drew more than two million views. Hart responded on X, saying the only remaining surgical option is a joint replacement. He said that operation would end his ability to play basketball.

The injury dates back to the 2025 play-offs, when Hart hurt the finger and had a procedure that July. The Knicks said he would resume "basketball activities" later that summer, but he reaggravated the injury before training camp. Doctors recommended a second operation that would have kept him out for two to three months, but Hart chose instead to wear a splint and keep playing. He said the injury has also caused nerve symptoms, including tingling and numbness, in his middle and pinky fingers. The issue emerged during the Knicks' run to their first championship in 53 years, a campaign in which Jalen Brunson played with a left wrist issue, Mitchell Robinson wore a brace, and Deuce McBride returned from sports hernia surgery before the play-offs began.

Hart said he raised the issue "so I don't got to answer this question anymore," and confirmed the finger will stay taped until he retires. McBride, who also played through injury during the title run, has said he was "probably 50% healthy" throughout the play-offs. The Knicks completed their title run despite several players managing injuries during the post-season. No date has been given for when Hart's finger will be operated on.