Josh Hart gets plaudits for proving himself as an efficient sharpshooter this season

For most of his career, Josh Hart has not been recognized as an efficient shooter. His offense mostly comes from smart cuts, excellent transition play, and the rare corner three-pointer. Hart's game is centered on energy and hustle, so it's normal for him to be a non-shooter.

After multiple seasons of shooting at the 30% range from beyond the arc, Hart has finally cracked the 40% mark this season. This comes after making the last nine of three-point attempts across the New York Knicks' past three games.

Hart is proving the doubters wrong by shooting over 40% from three

It is normal for Hart not to shoot three-pointers. He mostly thrives in transition, as he is nearly unstoppable when he picks up steam. At the same time, he is also quite a solid playmaker in transition and in the half-court, so his role as a connective piece is normal.

However, he has picked up his three-point shooting this season, especially in recent games. Against the Washington Wizards on Sunday, he made three three-pointers, while he hit five threes against the Indiana Pacers last week. 

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There was a time in his stint with the Portland Trail Blazers when Hart actively avoided shooting three-pointers. That is a stark contrast to what he is doing now because he is more willing nowadays, which impressed Jalen Brunson, who credited his hard work in the gym.

Karl-Anthony Towns was also quite complimentary about Hart and his surprising three-point shooting this season. 

"He's actually shooting it when he's open and not hesitating, so that helps a lot. He's a special three-point shooter. He's shooting with confidence, and when he's doing that, he becomes a three-level scorer," Towns said about Hart's three-point shooting.

Even Hart himself is having fun with his three-point shot. He does not take credit for his solid efficiency lately, as he is making jokes about being lucky. However, he is working hard to be a better offensive player for the Knicks, and that has translated to some good results.

More NBA news: 

• Mike Brown urges the Knicks to put in more of a collective effort
• Karl-Anthony Towns knows he is playing a new role under the Knicks' new system
• Mike Brown gives some rare praise for Karl-Anthony Towns' defense
• A lineup change could be on the cards if the Knicks continue their slow starts
• Jordan Clarkson is playing much better for the Knicks with his renewed energy