WATCH: Josh Hart leaves Game 6 against Indiana Pacers due to stomach pain

According to the New York Knicks, Josh Hart left Friday night's Game 6 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Indiana Pacers in the fourth quarter because of stomach problems. About halfway through the third quarter, Hart who had previously participated in four full games in the Knicks' first 11 postseason games seemed to be indicating to the bench that he should be taken out. 

He was observed using a heating pad while being treated by trainers, but he returned to the game with 3:19 remaining in the time. But he went to the locker room in the fourth quarter. Precious Achiuwa took Hart's position after only five minutes of play. 

Josh Hart was spotted consulting with team trainers near the visiting bench before returning to the game with 4:57 remaining in the time. The two-way wing played the remainder of the quarter, including a blocked shot at the rim against Pascal Siakim. However, Hart did not start the second half and did not leave the locker room until after play had begun.

Watch here the full video:

Josh Hart is in some pain on the bench. pic.twitter.com/SxAvNvOZGR

— Knicks Nation (@KnicksNation) May 18, 2024

Still, he returned to the game 2:12 into the period and hit a 3-pointer with 6:19 remaining to give New York Knicks a 46-44 lead. Hart had logged 20 minutes by halftime. Hart played only 31 minutes before suffering the latest injury in a team plagued by them. 

Hart is also one of their most dependable players, finishing the regular season with averages of 9.4 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game while shooting 43.4% from the field and 31.0%.

Injuries worries New York Knicks

With All-Star Julius Randle, OG Anunoby, Mitchell Robinson, and Bojan Bogdanovic all injured, Hart has been one of the Knicks' most reliable players. The forward played all 48 minutes three times in the playoffs and entered the game leading all players in total minutes played but trailing only MVP Nikola Jokic in total rebounds.

Whoever wins the series will proceed to the Eastern Conference Finals and play the Boston Celtics as they defeated Cleveland Cavaliers in five games.