Bridges Joins the Knicks Amid Shooting Struggles
The New York Knicks made a bold move this offseason by acquiring Mikal Bridges and parting with five first-round picks, hoping to inject a mix of youth and potential into their roster. Despite a promising career three-point shooting percentage of 37.5%, his recent preseason performance has raised eyebrows.
A Challenging Preseason
Bridges endured a difficult shooting spell in the preseason, highlighted by going 0-for-10 from the three-point line in the finale against the Washington Wizards. Over the course of four preseason games, he managed only 2-for-19 from beyond the arc, a concerning figure for a player known for his shooting prowess.
Historically, Bridges has proven his ability to connect from deep. Since entering the NBA, he has never shot below 36.1% from downtown. Last season, he achieved a 37.2% three-point shooting rate, attempting a career-high 7.2 threes per game. In catch-and-shoot situations, he was the seventh-most active player with 5.6 attempts per game and an impressive 38.4% conversion rate, placing him third among peers with similar volumes of attempts.
Adjusting and Adapting
For Bridges, the challenge lies not only in his recent shooting slump but also in a long-term adjustment with his shooting mechanics. Reflecting on his journey, Bridges shared, "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."
His candid acknowledgment of his ongoing battle with mechanical adjustments sheds light on the complexities a player can face even years into their professional career. Despite these challenges, Bridges has managed to maintain respectable shooting efficiency, a testament to his resilience and skill. Yet, the Knicks will be counting on him to rediscover and even elevate his shooting form as they pursue playoff aspirations in the ever-competitive Eastern Conference.
Anticipation and Expectations
The Knicks' decision to commit substantial assets for Bridges underscores their belief in his ability to contribute significantly. While the recent shooting woes might seem concerning at first glance, the organization's confidence in his capacity for recovery and growth remains steadfast. His history of success and adaptability amid setbacks provides hope that he will overcome this temporary setback.
For Knicks fans, the excitement surrounding Bridges is tempered with a watchful optimism as they eagerly anticipate the start of the regular season. The faith in Bridges is not solely founded on his shooting but also on his defensive versatility and ability to impact games beyond scoring. His all-around gameplay will be instrumental for a Knicks team looking to make a deep run and further establish their presence in the league.
A New Chapter in New York
As Bridges embarks on this new chapter in New York, all eyes will be on how he transitions and integrates within the team dynamic. The pressure of playing for a storied franchise in a city that demands excellence adds another layer of complexity to his journey. However, it also offers a platform to further his development and showcase his capabilities on one of basketball's biggest stages.
While preseason statistics may add some initial concern, they do not define his career or the player the Knicks are counting on him to be. With the regular season fast approaching, Mikal Bridges has the opportunity to prove that his acquisition was a gamble worth taking, his struggles just a stepping stone to future success on the Madison Square Garden court.