New York Knicks: Josh Hart Expected to Make Big Strides After Latest ESPN Top 100 Ranking

Meanwhile, the former Chicago Bulls tactician has turned a collective of talented players into a cohesive unit that plays with grit and determination.

One of the biggest beneficiaries of Thibs’ schematics is Josh Hart. The guard, who played for multiple teams before finding his home in the Big Apple, proved himself to be a key player during the Knicks’ postseason run.

One of the world’s leading sports publications recognizes his impact on the team during the playoffs and gave him a great spot in their list.

ESPN names New York Knicks’ Josh Hart as the NBA’s 61st-best player

ESPN regularly releases a comprehensive list of the best 100 cagers in the league to get everyone up to speed on which players will be the most exciting to watch for the season.

Chris Herring explains why he made the 30-rank jump from last season’s #91:

Few players are more fearless crashing the boards than Hart, who, despite standing 6-4, is one of the most tireless, rugged rebounders in the NBA. The Knicks’ Swiss Army knife showed an improved playmaking ability last season by logging six triple-doubles in a two-month span after zero during his first six seasons in the league. A favorite of defensive-minded coach Tom Thibodeau, Hart also logged 48 minutes or more in four playoff games last season.

The Villanova product was the perfect player for Thibs’ system, averaging 9.4 points, 8.3 rebounds, 4.1 assists, 0.9 steals, and 0.3 blocks. His energy in the regular season and the playoffs will be vital for the Knicks’ hopes of winning the Finals, and fans hope that he’ll be at such a high level throughout the campaign.