In a surprising offseason move, the New York Knicks made headlines by acquiring Mikal Bridges at the cost of five first-round picks. This decision underscored their commitment to fortifying their roster with a proven performer. However, Bridges's recent struggles during the preseason have raised eyebrows and subjected the Knicks’ decision to scrutiny.
A Preseason Setback
Despite a respectable career three-point shooting percentage of 37.5%, Bridges faced an unexpected slump in the Knicks’ preseason finale against the Washington Wizards. He missed all ten of his three-point attempts—an unusual downturn for a player known for his shooting prowess. Across four preseason games, Bridges hit only 2 out of 19 attempts from beyond the arc. For a team placing significant hopes on his shooting, this was not the start they envisioned.
A Glimpse at the Past
To put Bridges's preseason performance in perspective, one must look at his previous achievements. Since his entrance into the NBA, he has demonstrated a consistent touch from three-point range, never falling below 36.1% in any season. Last season, with a career-high of 7.2 three-point attempts per game, he maintained a commendable conversion rate of 37.2%.
Furthermore, he was among the league's most engaged players in catch-and-shoot situations, positioning him as an ideal fit for the Knicks’ playing style. With 5.6 attempts per game, Bridges achieved an impressive 38.4% success rate in these scenarios, ranking third in efficiency among his peers.
The Road to Refinement
Bridges's shooting journey has been one of persistent refinement. "Ever since I got into the league, been trying to fix it back to when I was in college," Bridges shared candidly. "So it's been seven years of just every day. 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."
This insight into Bridges's continued development offers a hopeful narrative for Knicks fans concerned after his recent performance. It is a testament to his dedication to overcoming technical hurdles and restoring his collegiate shooting form.
Looking Forward
Despite the preseason setbacks, Mikal Bridges’s track record suggests that this current slump may be temporary. With regular-season games offering opportunities for redemption, the Knicks and Bridges will be looking to recalibrate and harness his sharpshooting capabilities. For Bridges, this season presents not only a new chapter with the Knicks but also a chance to affirm his standing as a reliable threat from downtown.
For those within the Knicks organization, the faith placed in Bridges is unwavering. His career numbers and his clear commitment to honing his skills assure them that the investment is sound. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on Bridges to see if he can reclaim his shooting rhythm and live up to the lofty expectations set by this bold acquisition.