Josh Hart injured yet thrives despite brutal Celtics clash

In Boston on May 14, 2025, during Game 5 of the NBA playoff series, New York Knicks guard Josh Hart sustained a significant injury when he was elbowed in the face by Luke Kornet while attempting a layup. The incident occurred with just over three minutes remaining in the first quarter, leading to immediate bleeding from a gash above his left eye. Despite the injury, he managed to stay in the game long enough to take free throws, successfully making both, before heading to the locker room for treatment, which included stitching the cut. Hart's resilience continued to show as he returned in the second quarter to finish the game, contributing 24 points along with seven rebounds and two assists, showcasing his determination to compete despite the physical challenge he faced. The Knicks lost the match 127-102, shrinking their series lead to 3-2 as they prepared for Game 6. The competitive nature of the game was echoed by coach Tom Thibodeau, who anticipated such physical intensity. Hart's injury became a focal point, further heightened by a heated exchange between him and Celtics player Jaylen Brown in the third quarter. Both players received technical fouls after Hart screened Brown, which led to them shoving each other. Hart described the incident as stemming from their competitiveness but emphasized that respect remained between the two players after they had a moment of reconciliation later in the game. Brown also had a strong performance, scoring 26 points and assisting 12 times, aiding Boston in their effort to narrow down the series. Following Game 5, Hart reflected on his injury humorously, dismissing the seriousness of it with light-hearted comments indicating that he was in good spirits despite the rough night. The showdown was filled with various competitive incidents, illustrating the high stakes on the line as both teams aimed to advance in the playoffs, setting the stage for an intense Game 6 back in New York on May 16.