NBA Notes: Knicks, Josh Hart, Jazz, Darryn Peterson, Nets

Knicks

The Knicks and Josh Hart appear headed toward another contract discussion, though the price could be interesting.

Hart became eligible Aug. 10 for an extension worth as much as $132 million over four years, as relayed by James L. Edwards III of The Athletic. Edwards spoke with two league sources who estimated Hart’s market at roughly $54 million to $62 million over three years, though Edwards believes that would be team-friendly.

He suggested something closer to $70 million to $80 million over three years could represent fair value.

Hart, 31, averaged 12.0 points, 7.4 rebounds and 4.8 assists last season and started all 19 playoff games during New York’s championship run. Edwards expects the sides to eventually reach an agreement, though the Knicks’ already-expensive payroll could complicate the final number.

Jazz

If the Jazz are going to make another major trade, NBA on SI’s Jared Koch doesn’t expect Lauri Markkanen, Ace Bailey or Darryn Peterson to be part of it.

Koch ranked Peterson as Utah’s most “untouchable” player, followed by Bailey and Markkanen.

No great surprises there. Peterson was the No. 2 overall pick in June and is viewed as a potential franchise centerpiece, while Bailey earned All-Rookie second-team honors last season.

Markkanen, meanwhile, has been mentioned in trade rumors seemingly forever, but Utah has consistently maintained a high asking price and signed him to a long-term extension in 2024.

As Koch noted, nobody is truly untouchable in today’s NBA. But those three appear to be about as close as it gets in Utah.

Nets

The Nets appear prepared to give Day’Ron Sharpe his first extended opportunity as a starting center.

Ivan White of NBA on SI notes that Sharpe is positioned to replace Nic Claxton, who was traded to the Bulls as part of the deal that brought Julius Randle to Brooklyn.

Sharpe has made just 21 starts over five NBA seasons, including seven last year, and averaged a career-high 18.7 minutes. His rebounding has long been his calling card, but the larger question is how he’ll respond to a significant increase in playing time and responsibility.

White suggested Brooklyn should remain open to upgrading the position if the opportunity presents itself. For now, though, Sharpe appears to have the inside track on the job.