In a bold move that has sent ripples across the NBA, the New York Knicks have secured the services of the versatile Mikal Bridges, a strategic acquisition that cost them five first-round picks. As the Knicks eye a strong performance for the upcoming season, bringing Bridges on board underscores their commitment to strengthening their roster with top-tier talent.
However, the start of Bridges' journey with the Knicks has been anything but smooth. In the recent preseason finale against the Washington Wizards, Bridges struggled significantly, posting a woeful 0-for-10 effort from the three-point line. This performance headline's a preseason phase where he shot just 2-for-19 from beyond the arc over four games. While such statistics may raise eyebrows among critics, they fail to account for Bridges' established shooting credentials and his potential to rebound from this early slump.
A Consistent Performer
Bridges is not just any acquisition; he is a proven sharpshooter in the NBA. With a career three-point shooting percentage of 37.5%, he has consistently demonstrated his ability to excel from downtown. His track record showcases that, since entering the league, Bridges has never dipped below the 36.1% mark in three-point shooting accuracy. Last season, when he attempted a career-high 7.2 three-point shots per game, he maintained a steady connection rate of 37.2%.
The previous season saw Bridges shine particularly in catch-and-shoot situations. Ranked as the seventh-most active player in these scenarios, he took 5.6 attempts per game, converting at an impressive 38.4% rate. This efficiency ranked him as the third-most effective shooter among peers with similar or greater shooting opportunities. Clearly, his contributions were significant, and the Knicks will be counting on this proficiency to ignite their offensive plays in the regular season.
A Journey to Refine the Perfection
Echoing on his shooting form and the journey thus far, Bridges candidly noted the challenges he's faced over the years. "Ever since I got into the league, been trying to fix it back to when I was in college," he reflected, recounting an ongoing seven-year endeavor. "When I came out of college, I kind of tweaked it a little bit. And then my second year in the league, I had the hitch, and tried to build back from that ever since. So just trying to get it right. Pretty much it." These words not only reveal the depth of his self-awareness but also highlight his resilience in seeking continuous improvement.
The Road Ahead
For the Knicks, Mikal Bridges represents more than just a shooter; he symbolizes grit and the pursuit of excellence. His past achievements and statistics offer a glimpse into a player who, despite the occasional slump, has the fortitude to bounce back with zeal. While the preseason numbers may suggest cause for concern, they are unlikely to faze a player with Bridges' experience and capabilities.
As the curtain rises on a new NBA season, all eyes will be on Bridges to see how his skills and hard work manifest on the court for the Knicks. In a league where shooting prowess is often decisive, Bridges holds the key to unlocking the potential of New York’s offensive strategy. His mission, like many great players before him, is defined by the ability to adapt, evolve, and redefine excellence, irrespective of the early challenges that come his way.