Knicks’ Josh Hart Shakes Off Off-Court Theft as New York Builds Early-Season Momentum

The New York Knicks have settled into an encouraging rhythm early in the 2025–26 campaign, improving to 11–6 after a decisive road win over the Charlotte Hornets. Wednesday’s victory showcased the team’s depth — a defining characteristic of the roster — with forward Josh Hart contributing 22 points in one of his most assertive outings of the season.

While Hart’s on-court performance has been trending upward, a recent report has brought renewed attention to an off-court challenge he faced earlier this year. According to the New York Post, Hart was the victim of a theft in September involving high-value watches stolen from a hotel in Manhattan. The incident occurred just weeks before the season began.

Per the report, the theft took place at The Dominick Hotel on Spring Street, where Hart briefly stepped away from a duffle bag containing the timepieces. When he returned, the case holding the watches was gone. No arrests have been made, and no suspect information has been released by police. Hart filed a report several days after discovering the loss.

The situation remains unresolved, but it has not appeared to affect Hart’s early-season play. Instead, the veteran has continued to serve as a key rotational presence for a Knicks team looking to establish itself among the Eastern Conference’s top contenders.

1. Details of the Reported Theft

According to the New York Post’s Amanda Woods, Hart dropped off his duffle bag at The Dominick Hotel around midday on Sept. 5. When he returned approximately an hour later, he discovered that the case containing watches valued at roughly $185,000 was missing. Police sources confirmed the timeline and the items taken. The theft remains under investigation, with authorities yet to identify suspects or provide a description based on available information. The lack of leads has made the case difficult to advance, though the report notes that Hart officially notified law enforcement on Sept. 8. Incidents involving luxury items aren’t uncommon among professional athletes, but the timing — just weeks before training camp — placed an unexpected burden on one of the Knicks’ key contributors. Hart has not publicly commented on the investigation since the report surfaced. For now, the missing watches remain unaccounted for, leaving Hart hoping the pieces will be recovered as the search continues.

2. Hart’s Role Within a Deep Knicks Rotation

On the court, Hart’s importance to the Knicks remains clear even as his role has shifted. Over the past two seasons, the emergence of Mikal Bridges and OG Anunoby has cut into Hart’s touches and usage, pushing him into a more complementary position. Despite that change, his energy, rebounding, and versatility continue to be pillars of New York’s system. Hart’s performance in Charlotte — aggressive, efficient, and decisive — is the version of him the Knicks need as they push toward the expectations surrounding them. Many around the league view New York as a legitimate contender to reach the NBA Finals, and contributions from their supporting cast may determine how far they advance. His willingness to attack gaps, cut off the ball, and capitalize when defenses sag off him makes Hart essential, particularly in games where star scorers command extra attention. Wednesday’s 22-point outing served as a reminder of the value he brings when he plays assertively. If Hart continues this level of confidence and engagement, the Knicks’ depth could become one of their greatest strengths as the season progresses.

3. Knicks Seeking Consistency as Schedule Tightens

The Knicks have demonstrated progress in areas that troubled them early in the season, particularly with road performance. After an 0–4 start away from Madison Square Garden, New York has strung together more cohesive efforts, including Wednesday’s convincing win in Charlotte. The team’s improved rhythm comes at an important point in the schedule, with several high-profile matchups approaching. Maintaining defensive discipline, generating transition opportunities, and sustaining bench production remain priorities for head coach Tom Thibodeau and his staff. New York’s belief that it can contend for the Eastern Conference crown hinges partly on continued health and partly on the consistency of role players like Hart, Donte DiVincenzo, and Isaiah Hartenstein. With a balanced blend of star power and depth, the Knicks have positioned themselves as one of the conference’s most complete teams. The next test comes Friday night at home, when the Knicks host the Milwaukee Bucks in a matchup that could further clarify New York’s standing among the East’s elite.