Magic Johnson has clear opinion of former Laker Josh Hart after Knicks’ championship

Magic Johnson is an NBA and Los Angeles Lakers legend who is loyal to the franchise. However, he is also known for giving credit where it is due, congratulating Josh Hart and the New York Knicks .

The 6-foot-5 swingman helped his team end its 53-year title drought on Saturday. They defeated the San Antonio Spurs in five games, with Hart playing a key role throughout the series. His contributions were beyond what the stat sheets showed, providing a lot of hustle and heart.

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Johnson gave a shout out to Knicks players, including a message for Hart. The 66-year-old highlighted that he drafted the Villanova product when he was with Los Angeles and that he already knew what he could bring to the table.

Hart was drafted at No. 30 in 2017. He spent the first three seasons of his pro career with the Lakers before they traded him to the New Orleans Pelicans . The 31-year-old spent the next three campaigns with the Portland Trail Blazers and found his way to New York via a trade in 2023.

Hart started all five Finals games. While he experienced up-and-down scoring, he more than made up for it with his rebounding and clutch plays. He averaged 7.6 points, 10.0 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 1.4 steals.

His hustle and ability to provide New York with extra possessions earned him the nickname “Loose ball lunatic.” The Knicks will rely heavily on Hart again next season when they start their title defense with a huge target on their backs.