Mikal Bridges Faces Shooting Struggles Amidst New Beginnings
As Mikal Bridges embarks on a new chapter with the New York Knicks, his shooting struggles during the preseason have raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike. Known for his reliable three-point shooting, Bridges has established himself as a formidable shooter in the NBA, boasting a career average of 37.5% from beyond the arc. Yet, a recent slump has spotlighted some old mechanical issues that have plagued him since his college days.
During a preseason game against the Washington Wizards, Bridges uncharacteristically missed all ten of his three-point attempts. This performance comes on the back of a challenging preseason overall, where he hit only 2 of 19 attempts from three-point range over four games. These numbers are not reflective of the Mikal Bridges that fans and statisticians are familiar with, especially considering his consistent track record of maintaining a shooting percentage no lower than 36.1% in any NBA season.
Last season, representing the Brooklyn Nets, Bridges delivered a 37.2% three-point shooting efficiency on 7.2 attempts per game. His prowess was particularly evident in catch-and-shoot situations, where he ranked seventh in the league with 5.6 attempts per game, converting 38.4% of these opportunities. Such statistics underscore an undeniable skill set from an athlete hailed for his precision and ability to rise to big occasions.
However, behind this veneer of calm competence lies a persistent battle with shooting form. Bridges candidly acknowledged this ongoing struggle when he commented, "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." His words reveal an introspective player, deeply aware of his personal hurdles and continuously striving for consistency and improvement.
The Knox acquisition of Bridges—secured at a hefty cost of five first-round picks—signifies not only the franchise's hopes but also the weight of expectations on the young forward to perform. Bridges himself spoke about the tinkering with his shooting mechanics that began early in his career: "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 revelations provide insight into the realities of adapting and evolving in a league where precision is paramount.
Preseason, as many players attest, is a time for experimentation and adjustment. For Bridges, it presents an opportunity to refine his mechanics and regain the shooting form that made him a coveted player. Despite the challenges, preseason performances should be viewed within the context of preparation and growth rather than a definitive measure of future success.
The Knicks organization and their fans remain optimistic, understanding that Bridges' current slump could serve as the catalyst for a standout season if addressed with the right strategies and support. While shooting adjustments continue to occupy his focus, Bridges' defensive capabilities and overall athleticism ensure his value to the team's dynamics.
In the crucible of competitive sports, where every shot is scrutinized, Mikal Bridges' journey is a testament to the resilience needed to thrive. As he works to iron out his form ahead of the regular season, Bridges exemplifies the athlete’s eternal quest: not just to play, but to excel in the face of challenge. Without a doubt, all eyes will remain on him, waiting to see how this chapter unfolds, with a shared belief that he will triumphantly overcome this phase.