The New York Knicks will be without Josh Hart due to illness for their Tuesday night matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks, with Landry Shamet stepping into the starting lineup. This comes as the Knicks ride a four-game winning streak, their most recent victory a dominant 117-85 win over these same Bucks on November 10, 2026.
With Hart unavailable, the Knicks' starting five was confirmed shortly before tipoff. Jalen Brunson will run the point, with Landry Shamet getting the nod at shooting guard. Mikal Bridges starts at small forward, and OG Anunoby holds down the power forward spot.
Shamet is not a stranger to the first unit, having started two games already this season. In 25.3 minutes per game, he's putting up 9.3 points, 1.4 rebounds, and 1.9 assists while shooting 42.9% from the field. The coaching staff will lean on his experience as they look to extend their hot run of form, which stands at 4 wins and 1 loss in their last five outings.
Hart's status deteriorated throughout the day, moving from questionable to doubtful before being officially ruled out. This marks his third consecutive game missed. He had previously been sidelined with an ankle injury before this illness.
A team reporter noted that head coach Mike Brown believed Hart would have played if not for the sickness, indicating the earlier ankle issue has healed. Through seven appearances this season, Hart is averaging 8.6 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 3.9 assists. His absence means others, particularly in the frontcourt, must raise their rebounding and defensive effort.
Hart is also managing a chronic finger issue, but that has not limited him in the past. Beyond him, the Knicks' injury report is clear for this contest.
New York enters this game with significant momentum. Their current four-game win streak includes victories over the Cleveland Cavaliers (109-97 on Nov 7), Chicago Bulls (135-105 on Nov 4), and Brooklyn Nets (103-90 on Nov 2). Their last loss was a narrow 98-93 defeat to the Philadelphia 76ers on October 30.
This strong run of form provides a solid foundation as they handle short-term absences like Hart's. The team's depth will be tested, but recent performances suggest they have multiple players capable of stepping up.
The schedule doesn't let up for New York. Immediately after facing the Bucks, they turn around to host the Cleveland Cavaliers at home on November 11, 2026. It's a quick rematch after just beating them on the road. Maintaining this level of play through a back-to-back will be a challenge, and managing minutes will be important.
Securing another win without a key rotational piece like Hart would send a strong message about the team's resilience and depth as they build their record early in the season.
