The injury, which has left the finger visibly misaligned, stems from the 2025 Eastern Conference finals against the Indiana Pacers. Although Hart underwent an initial surgery following that series, he re-injured the digit during an inter-squad scrimmage against teammate Mikal Bridges. While he successfully navigated the 2025-26 season using a splint and protective wrapping, the long-term prognosis has since shifted, leaving him with the choice of playing through the pain or undergoing a career-ending operation.
Managing a career-altering injury
Explaining the physical limitations caused by the injury, Hart noted that the repetitive motions essential to his game—such as rebounding, palming the ball, and shooting—are severely compromised. The injury has also impacted a nerve, leading to periods of numbness and inconsistent pain levels that fluctuate daily. On some occasions, he struggles to even close his hand into a fist, yet he remains committed to continuing his career on the court.
Despite the physical toll, Hart managed to produce the most efficient shooting season of his career in 2025-26. He recorded a career-high 41 percent success rate from 3-point range and achieved his best effective field-goal percentage to date, all while the condition of his finger continued to deteriorate. Knicks head coach Mike Brown acknowledged the severity of the situation, noting the visible deformity of the finger while Hart continues to perform at a high level.
Future outlook and contract status
Hart plans to address the structural issues of his finger with a joint replacement only after he officially retires from the sport. He expressed a hope that the eventual procedure will help straighten the digit, which currently sits at an off-center angle. For now, he will continue to utilize protective gear to manage the injury during games.
Regarding his future with the franchise, Hart is eligible for a contract extension, though he indicated during media day that he does not expect a deal to be finalized soon. He is currently set to earn $43.3 million over the next two seasons, a figure that includes a team option for the 2027-28 campaign.
