In a significant move during the offseason, the New York Knicks made waves by acquiring Mikal Bridges, a player with an impressive career and a well-regarded skill set. The deal did come at a notable cost, costing the Knicks five first-round draft picks, a testament to their confidence in Bridges' abilities to elevate the team's performance.
However, the preseason raised some eyebrows as Bridges faced unexpected shooting challenges. His performance in the preseason finale against the Washington Wizards was particularly disconcerting, as he went 0-for-10 from the three-point line. Over the course of four preseason games, Bridges shot a staggering 2-for-19 from beyond the arc. Despite these early struggles, it’s critical to consider his career track record. Bridges boasts a respectable career three-point shooting percentage of 37.5%, having never dipped below a 36.1% shooting rate since beginning his NBA tenure.
Last season, Bridges took a pivotal role in his team's offense, attempting a career-high 7.2 three-point shots per game and maintaining a solid 37.2% conversion rate. In what has become a hallmark of his game, he excelled in catch-and-shoot opportunities, ranking as the seventh-most active player in this category. With an impressive 38.4% success rate, he was recognized as the third-most efficient among his peers with a similar or higher volume of attempts.
As Bridges himself has acknowledged, shooting has been an evolving aspect of his game. Reflecting on his journey, he candidly admits, "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."
This introspective comment from Bridges sheds light on the continuous adjustments and dedication required to refine such a critical skill in professional basketball. His candid acknowledgment of the struggle to return to his college form is a testament to the relentless work and commitment behind the scenes that fans often overlook.
The Knicks are banking on Bridges to play a vital role in their quest for sustained success. While his current stats might raise concerns, his historical performance promises an eventual return to form. His efficiency in catch-and-shoot play and proven capability from beyond the arc place him among the league's elite when he finds his rhythm.
Every player faces slumps and adjustments, a reality well recognized by seasoned enthusiasts of the sport. The question now is whether Bridges can quickly recalibrate as the regular season approaches. His career thus far suggests he possesses the resilience and skill to overcome these preseason woes.
Ultimately, the Knicks' investment in Bridges reflects a strategic belief in his potential—a prospect that could redefine their trajectory in the highly competitive landscape of the NBA. Enthusiasts and pundits alike will closely watch his performance to see if Bridges can fulfill the promise that convinced the Knicks to part with such valued assets for his talents.