10 Former players that have excelled since leaving the Los Angles Lakers

4. Josh Hart, New York Knicks

If you've ever questioned the importance of fit in an athlete's success, look no further than Josh Hart for proof that it's essential. Hart has been a quality NBA player throughout his seven-year career, but it wasn't until he joined the New York Knicks that he began to tap into his full potential.

The former Los Angeles Lakers wing, who was traded in the Anthony Davis deal, is not only one of the best rebounders at his position, but has become the arguable heart and soul of a Knicks team that won 50 games in 2023-24.

Hart finished the 2023-24 regular season with averages of 9.4 points, 8.3 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 1.0 three-point field goal made. On the surface, those are strong, but not spectacular numbers with the obvious exception of his ridiculous rebounding figures at just 6'4".

Beneath the surface, however, is a player whose motor is borderline unrivaled and whose commitment to the team is second to none.

In 2023-24, Hart made waves by setting a Knicks record by playing at least 40 minutes in nine consecutive games. He also played at least 48 minutes in four different playoff games, including the 53 he logged in Game 5 against the Philadelphia 76ers.

A tenacious defender who epitomizes the intensity that has been a trademark of every great Knicks team, Hart is a player the Lakers would likely love to have back in the purple and gold.