Josh Hart made history for the New York Knicks by breaking a franchise record that had stood for 56 years. In the Knicks’ 128-113 victory over the Dallas Mavericks, Hart recorded his ninth triple-double of the season, surpassing the legendary Walt “Clyde” Frazier’s mark from 1969.
He finished the game with 16 points, 12 rebounds, and 11 assists, solidifying his status as a key contributor to the team’s success. Despite the achievement, Hart remained humble, stating that it was simply a reflection of playing “at least nine good games” this season.
Hart’s Selfless Gesture Highlights Team-First Mentality Amidst Record-Breaking Performance
Although Hart had a record-breaking night, he chose to give the game ball to his teammate, Kevin McCullar Jr. McCullar, who had just recovered from a knee injury, scored his first NBA points in the game.
For Hart, this moment was more meaningful than setting records, emphasizing that first career points are something that “no one can take away from you.” This act of selflessness was just another example of Hart’s team-first mentality, which has been a defining characteristic of his career.
Hart’s ability to fill the stat sheet has been particularly impressive during his time with the Knicks. In his first six NBA seasons, playing for the Lakers, Pelicans, and Trail Blazers, he had not recorded a single triple-double.
However, in his two-plus seasons in New York, he has amassed 15 triple-doubles, placing him among elite company, alongside LeBron James, Nikola Jokic, Domantas Sabonis, Luka Doncic, and Giannis Antetokounmpo. His relentless energy and effort have made him an indispensable part of the team, with his impact often extending beyond traditional statistics.
Karl-Anthony Towns Joins Hart in Historic Night, Knicks Secure Playoff-Boosting Victory
Josh Hart was not the only Knick to make history that night. Karl-Anthony Towns also recorded a triple-double, marking the first time in franchise history that two Knicks teammates accomplished the feat in the same game. Towns finished with 26 points, 12 rebounds, and 11 assists, achieving his first triple-double in three years.
His strong playmaking ability was evident from the start, as he recorded six assists in the first quarter and completed his triple-double by the third. Towns credited his teammates for trusting him and creating opportunities on the court.
Beyond individual achievements, the Knicks’ victory over the Mavericks was crucial in their push for playoff positioning. With the win, New York improved to a 45-26 record, securing their second consecutive victory. While breaking records was a special moment for Hart and Towns, both players emphasized that winning was the ultimate goal.
Towns summed up the night perfectly, stating that “New York appreciates the wins more than the triple-doubles.” For the Knicks and their fans, the historic performances were just a bonus to an important team victory.
