The name Mikal Bridges often brings to mind a versatile player whose shooting prowess from beyond the arc has become a defining feature of his NBA profile. With a career average of 37.5% from three-point range, Bridges' shooting has been a remarkable asset, consistently proving his worth as a reliable shooter. However, recent preseason struggles have raised questions about whether he can maintain his renowned efficiency amid mechanical challenges that have haunted his form since college.
Preseason Woes
Bridges’ preseason with the New York Knicks has been less than stellar. In a game against the Washington Wizards, Bridges missed all ten of his three-point shots, spotlighting a rough patch for the player. Over the four preseason games, his performance from beyond the arc has been a concerning 2 of 19, a stark contrast to his previously consistent shooting record. These struggles highlight preseason as a period of experimentation and adjustment, particularly when players face new challenges like those Bridges is experiencing.
The Knicks have invested heavily in Bridges, acquiring him in the offseason by trading five first-round picks. This substantial investment underscores the team’s confidence in Bridges’ potential to be a game-changer for them, despite the current slump.
A History of Mechanical Challenges
Bridges’ shooting mechanics have been a work in progress since his college days. "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," Bridges shared. His candid acknowledgment of the struggle reveals a player persistently refining his craft despite inherent challenges. The tweaks to his shooting form started when he entered the league, and he admits, "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."
This openness about his ongoing battle with mechanical issues presents a narrative of resilience, and an understanding that mastering the art of shooting is often an enduring pursuit.
A Proven Track Record
Despite recent struggles, Bridges’ track record provides ample reasons to remain optimistic about his future with the Knicks. During his tenure with the Brooklyn Nets last year, Bridges maintained a commendable 37.2% shooting efficiency from the three-point line, taking 7.2 shots per game. Impressively, in the catch-and-shoot category, he stood seventh in attempts across the NBA, with 5.6 per game, and succeeded in converting 38.4% of those opportunities. This consistency cements his reputation as a dependable shooter, capable of contributing significantly even amid adversities.
Moreover, Bridges has never dropped below a 36.1% shooting percentage in any NBA season, illustrating a rare consistency that few players can boast. This history reassures that his current preseason slump might just be a temporary bump rather than a sign of long-term decline.
The Road Ahead
For Bridges and the New York Knicks, addressing and overcoming these mechanical hurdles will be crucial as they venture into the upcoming season. As Bridges continues to adjust his form and regain his rhythm, the Knicks’ faithful will be hopeful that he can rediscover the shooting touch that has made him such a valued player in the league.
The team’s off-season investment certainly sets a high bar. However, given Bridges' perseverance and historical performance, both the player and the team can look forward with cautious optimism. After all, resolving mechanical challenges on the court isn’t just a technical feat; it's a testament to the character and resilience that distinguishes the good from the great in professional sports.
As the regular season approaches, all eyes will be on Mikal Bridges to see how he transitions from the preseason trials to once more becoming the deep-ball threat that opponents have come to respect—and rightfully fear—over the years.