Josh Hart Defends Jalen Brunson After Draymond Green Critique

New York Knicks forward Josh Hart publicly rebuked Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green's criticism of teammate Jalen Brunson’s contract decision. Green argued that Brunson, a 2024 NBA champion, should not have taken a roughly $100 million salary discount, saying the Knicks could afford to pay him fully. Hart responded on social media, saying “we got to normalize grown men not counting other people’s pockets,” and defended the strategic pay cut that helped New York secure star players and win its first championship since 1973.

The debate centers on Brunson’s July 2024 extension, which left about $113 million on the table to give the Knicks flexibility for future signings. Analysts note that the sacrifice contributed to the team’s title run and may position Brunson for a larger contract in the coming years.