Mikal Bridges, the 29-year-old wing acquired by the New York Knicks in exchange for five first-round picks, has sparked debate due to his varied playing time during critical moments in recent games against the Detroit Pistons and Houston Rockets. Despite some benching in key stretches, Bridges’ statistical output in New York closely mirrors his previous performance with the Phoenix Suns, raising questions about whether he is truly the transformative player the Knicks anticipated when making such a costly trade.
Bridges’ current averages with the Knicks stand at 16.8 points, 3.9 assists, and 1.1 steals per game, with a 36.6% success rate from beyond the arc. These numbers are similar to his 2021-22 averages of 14.2 points, 2.3 assists, and 1.2 steals on 36.9% shooting from three-point range while with Phoenix. In the 2022-23 season, prior to being traded to Brooklyn, Bridges upped his production to 17.2 points, 3.6 assists, and 1.2 steals on 38.7% shooting from deep, demonstrating consistency but no clear breakout.
While Knicks fans may feel the trade’s hefty price tag, which did not yield a star of Giannis Antetokounmpo’s caliber or an emerging generational talent, has fallen short, the numbers suggest New York received the player they expected based on Bridges’ proven capabilities.
Josh Hart Voices Confidence in Bridges’ Potential Impact
Following a victory over the Houston Rockets, teammate Josh Hart addressed the pressure that accompanied Bridges’ acquisition, considering the extensive trade package involved. Hart emphasized the importance of team support to help Bridges flourish in New York’s system.
“I guess,” Hart told Kristian Winfield of the New York Daily News when asked if Bridges faces loftier expectations than he deserves because of the draft picks associated with his acquisition. “At the end of the day, Kal’s gonna do what he’s gotta do. He’s gonna find his way. Like I said, I think there’s times where we can do a better job of making sure he’s involved offensively and aggressive and get him into his spots…we’ve gotta make sure we put him in position to be successful and not just doing it within the flow of the offense.”
?Josh Hart, New York Knicks Player
Hart’s remarks reflected a blend of realism and strong belief in Bridges’ value. The longtime teammate highlighted Bridges’ knack for delivering in crucial moments and the trust the team places in his ability to impact games positively.
“We know what we have in him,”
Hart told Winfield of Bridges.
“We know what he means to the team. And the beauty of him is he can have a terrible game the whole game and make a game-winning play, and I think he’s done that. I wouldn’t say terrible game, but he’s done that plenty of times, making game-winning plays late in the game when we need him. That’s why we got him.”
?Josh Hart, New York Knicks Player
Balancing Tough Decisions as Playoff Pressure Mounts
Though Bridges’ contributions have been significant, his playing time in crunch moments has occasionally been limited in favor of other guards like Landry Shamet. This rotation decision is part of the Knicks’ strategy to maximize their chances of playoff success, even if it means benching a player with a $150 million contract during key game stretches.
As the NBA playoffs approach, Bridges will face intensified scrutiny. His ability to deliver in postseason moments will be crucial to justifying the costly trade and validating the Knicks’ gamble. The team’s front office and coaching staff must balance expectations and roles carefully to unlock Bridges’ full potential and enhance New York’s championship aspirations.
