New Delhi, Oct. 3 -- The New York Knicks' preseason opener against the Philadelphia 76ers promised playoff-level intensity, but it took a concerning turn when star forward Josh Hart fell down on the floor in the second quarter on Thursday, October 2, 2025. Hart's apparent back injury led to a controversial ejection.

In the second quarter, Josh Hart dove for a rebound after a missed 3-pointer by Sixers rookie Johni Broome. The 6-foot-4 wing secured the ball but collapsed in pain as Philadelphia's Kennedy Chandler tied him up for a jump ball.

As officials signalled the stoppage, Hart flung the ball across the court, seemingly in agony, not anger, while clutching his lower back. The referee, interpreting it as frustration, issued a technic...