New York Knicks guard Josh Hart engaged in a playful online exchange with Cleveland Cavaliers star Donovan Mitchell, teasing him about the struggling New York Mets.
Hart initiated the banter on X, formerly Twitter, by directing a message to Mitchell regarding the upcoming MLB trade deadline. "Yo @spidadmitchell trade deadline coming up," Hart wrote. "Yall might want to make a move…it’s looking dark at the bottom."
The commentary referred to the Mets' then-current 45-62 record, which placed them at the bottom of the National League East standings despite a roster with a high payroll.
Mitchell, whose father Donovan Mitchell Sr. holds a position as senior director of community, inclusion, and player relations with the Mets, has a long-standing connection to the team. He grew up around the organization and even worked as a bat boy for the Brooklyn Cyclones, a Mets affiliate. Mitchell has frequently been seen attending games at Citi Field.
Mitchell responded to Hart's tweet, stating, "You from the DMV and a Yankee fan. … I’m not hearing it smh @joshhart." This appeared to be a reference to Hart's own baseball allegiances and the Mets' poor performance.
Hart's family also has a connection to New York baseball; his great-uncle was Elston Howard, the first Black player for the New York Yankees. Hart has previously spoken about Howard as a role model.
Continuing the playful jab, Hart later posted a screenshot of the National League East standings, highlighting that his hometown team, the Washington Nationals, were 10 games ahead of the Mets. He added, "You right…..Let’s see how the Nats are doing. Surely the Mets are better than them."