Recent reports about Josh Hart, who was the lone American player to sit out Team USA’s game against Puerto Rico on a Monday, raised questions. Nonetheless, the Knicks put an end to the rumors by announcing the renewal of Hart’s deal.

Contract discussions were the impetus for the strategic shift. Hart’s well-being came first before agreeing a contract extension, but with news of an agreement being confirmed by ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, it’s evident that both parties wаnted to continue working together.

The offer made to Hart was the best the Knicks could do at the time. At the start of his new four-year contract, his salary will increase from its current level of slightly under $13 million to a very respectable $18.1 million. Given Hart’s recent success and potential, the Knicks’ commitment of less than 15 percent of the NBA salary cap is a smart move.

The Knicks want to invest in their team’s future.

If you’ve been keeping up with Josh Hart’s career, you know that he’s decided to stay with the Knicks. He has made it clear he is not asking for a wage cut by repeatedly expressing his wish to stay in New York, although with the expectation of a lucrative contract.

The Knicks are getting an experienced player, Hart, for their money. He has been a crucial reserve for Coach Tom Thibodeau’s team, contributing 10.2 points and 7.0 rebounds per game last year. Statistics, however, can only reveаl so much. Hart’s true value lies in his boundless enthusiasm and tough play, which are necessary for the Knicks to improve upon their 2017–18 record.

Hart will play for Team USA in the near future under Coach Steve Kerr, especially in the next World Cup warm-up matches against Spain and Slovenia, but he is also firmly in New York’s plans for the future.

With this new deal, the Knicks and Hart have reaffirmed their dedication to one another and to the team’s and Hart’s long-term success in New York.