Josh Hart jokingly attributes the Knicks' recent defensive success to Jalen Brunson's absence after their win over the Kings.

We have reached the strangest possible stage of the Knicks season. They entered Tuesday’s game against the Warriors at the Garden with a 40-20 record, which translates to roughly 55-27 over a full season, which would be the most wins in a season since 1997, which … (“That’s nice. They’re also 0-7 against the Thunder, Cavaliers and Celtics .”)

Brunson suffered a right ankle injury in overtime of New York’s March 6 loss to the Lakers and isn’t expected back until the end of the month. In his absence, the Knicks (42-24) have held their own — but offensive struggles have made every possession a battle.