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

A collective groan could be heard around New York when it was announced that Jalen Brunson would be out at least two weeks with an ankle sprain. However, if one were to ask Josh Hart, life has not been so bad.

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 .”)

The New York Knicks player could emerge as an X-Factor as Tom Thibodeau's roster navigates life with Jalen Brunson on the sidelines.

Missing their captain, the Knicks leaned on defense, shooting and pace in a dominant showing against the Kings. Can they do it consistently?

Josh Hart got chuckles in the locker room Monday night because the best jokes are tinged with truth. And this was his response to the question of why the defense has improved lately:

Jalen Brunson suffered an apparent ankle injury during the overtime period of the Knicks' game against the Lakers.

The Knicks are without their superstar floor general Jalen Brunson for at least two weeks after he suffered an ankle injury during Thursday’s loss to the Los Angeles Lakers. It is a sizable loss to contend with at this point in the season.

The Knicks didn’t just win their first game since Jalen Brunson’s sprained ankle. See Also new york knicks Knicks’ Karl-Anthony Towns responds to Draymond Green’s ducking claim They dominated the Kings.

Is guard Jalen Brunson taking the court today against the Portland Trail Blazers? The New York Knicks offered details on his injury status.