3 playoff Game 1 stars the Cavaliers could sign in free agency

“Game 1” Star No. 2: Josh Hart, New York Knicks

When the New York Knicks played RJ Barrett in their Game 1 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Knicks were outscored by 13 points. When Josh Hart was on the court (sometimes with Barrett, but largely as his replacement) the Knicks outscored the Cavs instead. Despite his inconsistent outside shot, Hart’s contributions across the board were a key part of the Knicks’ victory.

Hart has the kind of motor every coach (and fan) loves, constantly moving and fighting and scrapping and winning. Despite standing just 6’5″ he has become a monster on the glass, averaging 7.8 rebounds per game this season. In Game 1 he upped the ante, pulling down 10 rebounds, including five Cavs-killing offensive boards.

Far from a one trick pony, Hart also scored 17 points on a hyper-efficient 8-of-11 from the field, including a neat 1-for-2 from downtown. Despite coming off of the bench he played 33 minutes, just a few seconds behind Julius Randle for the Knicks’ lead.

Hart has a player option this summer for $12 million, and he will almost certainly elect to hit free agency and secure a larger payday. The Knicks will be motivated to keep him, but if they are able to line up a trade for a top-line star there might not be financial space for Hart.

The Cavs would fight for their place in line to sign Hart to the full MId-Level Exception, which should start close to $12 million and get up to $49 million over four years. Hart may have a larger market, especially if he keeps balling out, but his size and rebounding at the 3 would make him a great fit, especially if his outside shot can normalize.