For Mikal Bridges, hitting the long ball has long been a staple of his basketball arsenal. With a career average of 37.5% from beyond the arc, he's been a reliable perimeter threat since entering the league. However, even the most consistent shooters can experience dry spells, as evidenced by Bridges' recent preseason performance.
A Rough Preseason
Unfortunately for Bridges, his shooting touch deserted him during a preseason game against the Washington Wizards, where he missed all ten of his three-point attempts. This outing was part of a wider trend, as he struggled to find his rhythm throughout the preseason, making just 2 out of 19 attempts from long distance over four games.
Preseason is often regarded as a period for experimentation, a notion that offers some solace for players and teams alike. The intention is to iron out kinks and make necessary adjustments before the regular season grind begins. For Bridges, this period of adjustment might be more significant, as it builds upon challenges he's faced since his college days.
Lingering Mechanical Issues
Shooting mechanics have been a topic of concern and focus for Bridges since his days in college. As he openly 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." This candid reflection sheds light on the ongoing battle to refine a pivotal aspect of his game.
In an effort to improve his form, Bridges recounted, "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." It's a testament to the dedication and resilience required to make adjustments at the highest level of professional basketball.
Consistent Performer
Despite these challenges, Bridges' track record remains impressive. During his tenure with the Brooklyn Nets last year, he maintained a solid 37.2% three-point shooting percentage, making 7.2 attempts per game. In the catch-and-shoot category, a vital component of today’s fast-paced NBA offense, he ranked seventh in attempts with 5.6 per game and converted an admirable 38.4% of those opportunities.
His ability to consistently perform underlines his talent and potential, even as he strives for greater precision and reliability from long range. The underlying figures cement his status as an effective scorer who can impact games beyond just shooting.
A New Chapter
This offseason, Bridges' basketball journey took another turn with a move to the New York Knicks. In a significant trade, the Knicks acquired him in exchange for five first-round picks—a testament to his perceived value and the potential the organization sees in him. This new chapter could provide the platform for Bridges to continue refining and showcasing his abilities on a bigger stage.
Although his preseason struggles are noteworthy, they are unlikely to define the upcoming season. The Knicks are betting on his ability to adjust and regain his form heading into the regular campaign. As Bridges continues to work on his mechanics, fans and analysts alike will watch closely, eager to see if he can live up to and even exceed expectations in a new environment.
For Mikal Bridges, the journey is far from over. With a solid foundation of past achievements and continuing dedication to his craft, there’s little doubt he has the capability to overcome preseason hurdles and thrive as a pivotal piece in the Knicks' roster.