Bridges Joins the Knicks Amid Shooting Slump
In a significant reshuffle, the New York Knicks have acquired Mikal Bridges, a player whose potential has never been in question. Yet, the latest developments in his preseason performance raise questions about his recent form and provide a challenging backdrop to his next chapter in New York.
As part of this high-stakes acquisition, the Knicks made a bold move, parting with five first-round picks to secure Bridges. This decision underscored the franchise’s belief in his abilities and their commitment to making immediate impacts on the court. However, Bridges' current shooting statistics suggest that the Knicks' investment comes with its challenges.
The Preseason Struggles
During the preseason finale against the Washington Wizards, Bridges struggled significantly, failing to connect on any of his ten three-point attempts. Over the four preseason games, he achieved just 2-for-19 from the three-point range, a stark contrast to his usual standards.
This recent shooting slump is uncharacteristic for Bridges, known for his sharp shooting capabilities. His career three-point shooting percentage stands at an impressive 37.5%, and since entering the NBA, he has never shot below 36.1% from beyond the arc. Last season, Bridges attempted a career-high 7.2 three-point shots per game, maintaining a 37.2% success rate.
Consistency Over the Years
Bridges' past performance speaks volumes of his consistency. Last season, notably, he was the seventh-most active player in catch-and-shoot situations, recording 5.6 attempts per game. His conversion rate in these setups was an impressive 38.4%, placing him third among players with comparable or higher attempts.
Reflecting on his shooting form, Bridges candidly 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."
These words provide insights into Bridges’ ongoing battle with his shooting mechanics and highlight his dedication to regaining his college-level proficiency.
The Road Ahead
The investment in Bridges is not solely about his on-court skills but also the leadership and resilience he brings to the team. His shooting challenges, while a current concern, are likely part of the adaptation period following his transition to New York and the shifts in team dynamics.
As the Knicks prepare for the season, there's cautious optimism that Bridges will find his rhythm and contribute significantly to the team's offensive strategies. His history of reliable performance supports the belief that his preseason slump is a temporary setback.
Strategic Implications
For the Knicks, the acquisition of Bridges is a calculated risk with potentially high rewards. His proven track record suggests that once he navigates this current rough patch, he will be a cornerstone in their pursuit of success. Despite the preseason concerns, the long-term strategy may well vindicate the Knicks’ decision to invest heavily in Bridges.
As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on Mikal Bridges as he aims to reconcile his preseason struggles with his historically dependable shooting ability, hoping to inspire and lead the Knicks to new heights. The journey, both challenging and promising, lays the groundwork for captivating narratives that lie ahead for Bridges and his new team.