New York Knicks’ Bold Move: Mikal Bridges Joins the Roster
In a decisive move resonating throughout the NBA, the New York Knicks have secured the talents of Mikal Bridges, a seasoned 3-and-D player widely recognized for his sharp shooting skills and defensive prowess. This acquisition, costing the Knicks five first-round picks, has not only captured the attention of aficionados and experts alike but has also introduced a fresh dynamic to the team’s roster.
Shooting Woes in Preseason
As the Knicks prepare for the lifting of the curtain on the upcoming season, Bridges finds himself under scrutiny following a challenging preseason. The versatile forward was unable to find his range from beyond the arc, shooting a disappointing 0-for-10 during the preseason finale against the Washington Wizards. Over four games, his three-point shooting record stood at an alarming 2-for-19.
Despite this recent slump, Knicks fans should not hit the panic button just yet. Throughout his NBA career, Bridges has been a reliable shooter, never dipping below a 36.1% success rate from long distance. His overall career three-point shooting percentage sits comfortably at 37.5%, a testament to his past consistency.
Consistent Performer
Last season underscored Bridges’ offensive contributions, as he attempted a career-high 7.2 shots from beyond the arc per game, making 37.2% of them. Perhaps more impressively, Bridges ranked as the seventh-most active player in catch-and-shoot situations, averaging 5.6 attempts per game. His efficiency in these scenarios, hitting 38.4%, positioned him as the third-most proficient among players with a similar volume.
A Quest for Perfection
The fluctuations in his shooting performance may trace back to adjustments in his shooting mechanics. Bridges himself has admitted to ongoing efforts to refine his form. "Ever since I got into the league, been trying to fix it back to when I was in college," he revealed 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 relentless pursuit of improvement underscores Bridges' dedication to excellence. His history suggests that with the right adjustments and a bit of time, he should revert to his usual reliable self.
The Bigger Picture
The Knicks' substantial investment in Bridges speaks volumes about their strategic ambitions. Mikal Bridges is not just a player who can stretch defenses with his shooting; he also brings formidable defensive skills. This dual-threat capability could be the key to unlocking new potentials for the Knicks, aiming to reach higher echelons in the standings.
As the regular season beckons, Bridges' ability to overcome his current shooting struggles will be crucial. Should he recalibrate his shot and bring his usual intensity to the floor, the Knicks’ gamble will likely pay off handsomely. For now, patience combined with a keen eye on his development will be essential for Knicks fans.
Ultimately, Mikal Bridges brings an intriguing blend of experience, skill, and potential development to a Knicks team hungry for success. His recent shooting woes could be viewed as a mere hiccup on the path to becoming an integral cog in New York's basketball machine.