The NBA offseason is often filled with anticipation and speculation, as fans and analysts alike eagerly dissect trades and roster changes. This summer, the New York Knicks made headlines with a significant move, acquiring Mikal Bridges in a deal that saw them part with five first-round picks. This investment underscores the organization's belief in Bridges' potential to elevate the team’s performance as they aim for a deeper playoff run.
Bridges, a player renowned for his defensive prowess and shooting ability, brings a versatile skill set to the Knicks. His career three-point shooting percentage stands at an impressive 37.5%, showcasing his reliability from beyond the arc. Notably, since entering the league, he has consistently shot above 36.1% from downtown, a testament to his shooting consistency.
Preseason Performance Raises Eyebrows
However, Bridges' preseason performance sparked some concern among fans and analysts. In the Knicks' preseason finale against the Washington Wizards, Bridges struggled, missing all ten of his attempts from the three-point line. Over the course of four preseason games, he shot a discouraging 2-for-19 from beyond the arc. Such numbers are atypical for Bridges, given his previous performances.
This preseason anomaly contrasts sharply with last season's output, where Bridges attempted a career-high 7.2 three-point shots per game, converting 37.2% of them. A critical factor in his offensive arsenal, Bridges was highly effective in catch-and-shoot situations. He was the seventh-most active player in such scenarios, with 5.6 attempts per game, achieving a 38.4% conversion rate — the third-most efficient among players with similar volume.
Navigating and Adapting Shooting Mechanics
Addressing his shooting struggles, Bridges candidly reflected on the ongoing adjustments in his shooting mechanics. "Ever since I got into the league, been trying to fix it back to when I was in college. 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," he explained. This admission reveals a determined athlete committed to refining his craft despite past challenges.
The hitch Bridges refers to is a common shooting issue that can disrupt a player's rhythm and accuracy. It's clear that Bridges has been methodically working to eliminate this hindrance, seeking to revert to the form that made him a standout in college and an appealing draft prospect.
Looking Towards the Regular Season
The preseason is traditionally a time for experimentation and adjustment, both for teams and players. While Bridges' recent shooting slump may cause some unease, it’s essential to contextualize these performances within the broader picture of his career. His established track record of consistent shooting provides a foundation of confidence for the Knicks and their fans.
As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on Bridges to see if he can translate his practice efforts into game-day success for the Knicks. With the pressure of New York's bright lights and high expectations, Bridges' ability to overcome past shooting challenges and establish himself as a consistent threat will be crucial.
It remains to be seen how this trade will influence the Knicks’ season and Bridges' career trajectory. However, with a strong support system and a clear commitment to his development, there's reason to believe that Bridgies could emerge as a pivotal figure in New York's quest for success.
The NBA regular season is set to be an intriguing narrative, with Bridges at the heart of one of the league's most compelling storylines. Knicks fans and basketball enthusiasts alike will surely be watching closely as the season unfolds, eager to witness the next chapter in Mikal Bridges' promising career.