Knicks Star Josh Hart Gushes Blood in Gruesome Playoff Injury: “Might Need a Transfusion”

The 2025 NBA Playoffs have delivered no shortage of drama, but few moments have been as shocking – or as intense – as what unfolded in Game 5 of the Knicks vs. Celtics series at TD Garden. New York Knicks star Josh Hart was left gushing blood in a gruesome first-quarter injury that stunned fans, commentators, and players alike.

A Brutal Collision in Boston

With 3:30 remaining in the first quarter, and the Knicks trailing the Celtics 21-16, Hart drove aggressively to the basket – a move Knicks fans have come to expect from the hard-nosed forward. But this time, he collided with an unintentional elbow from Boston big man Luke Kornet. The impact was immediate – Hart dropped to the floor, clutching his face in visible pain as blood began pouring down.

Within seconds, the hardwood was streaked with blood. TNT’s commentators were clearly shaken by the scene, with one exclaiming, “He might need a transfusion – he is gushing blood.”

Medical Chaos and a Quick Recovery

As medics rushed to treat the 30-year-old Knicks star, the game was temporarily halted. Hart was escorted to the sidelines, where trainers worked quickly to stop the bleeding. His jersey and shorts – completely soaked in blood – had to be changed before he could re-enter the game.

In a true testament to his toughness and playoff mindset, Hart returned shortly after the incident -vision still partially impaired – and calmly walked to the free-throw line. The crowd, both stunned and impressed, watched as Hart fought through the pain to continue the game.

No Flagrant Foul Called

Following a review of the play, the referees determined that the elbow from Kornet was accidental and opted not to upgrade the call to a flagrant foul. While some Knicks fans may have disagreed with the decision, the replay clearly showed there was no malicious intent – just a brutal, unfortunate collision during a high-stakes game.

Knicks One Win from the Conference Finals

The injury occurred during a critical moment in the series. Heading into Game 5, the Knicks held a 3-1 series lead over the Celtics and were looking to close things out on the road. The team has been riding high after winning the first two games in Boston, before a tough loss at Madison Square Garden put pressure back on New York.

Still, the Knicks bounced back in Game 4 to reclaim momentum, and Game 5 was a chance to punch their ticket to the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in 25 years.

Unfortunately, the game was also marred by another major injury – Celtics star Jayson Tatum suffered a devastating Achilles injury, putting a cloud over Boston’s playoff hopes and casting serious doubt on his availability moving forward.

Josh Hart: The Heart of the Knicks

If there was ever any doubt about Josh Hart’s value to this Knicks team, tonight silenced it. Not only does he provide hustle, defense, and rebounding – he brings grit, toughness, and a level of heart that defines New York basketball.

Bleeding, dazed, and shaken – Hart still stood tall and came back to compete. That kind of resilience is what the playoffs are all about.

Final Word

Josh Hart’s injury may have been accidental, but his response was pure willpower. As the Knicks continue their deep playoff run, fans will remember this moment not just as a gruesome injury, but as a symbol of Hart’s dedication to his team, and to the city of New York.