Mikal Bridges Faces Challenges in Knicks’ System but Shows Promise

Mikal Bridges, a recent addition to the New York Knicks, has been experiencing an unusual start to his tenure with the team, characterized by both distinct challenges and flashes of brilliance. Since joining the Knicks, Bridges has exhibited a significant deviation in his playing style, particularly his tendency to avoid drawing fouls when driving to the basket. Despite these challenges, Bridges remains an integral part of the Knicks’ aspirations for the season.

Bridges’ transition from the Brooklyn Nets to the Knicks included a trade that saw the Knicks giving up five first-round picks, signaling high expectations for his performance. Yet, in a surprising turn, Bridges has drawn only five shooting fouls throughout the season with just three occurring in the paint. As noted by head coach Tom Thibodeau, Bridges’ fallaway jumper, usually taken from within 15 feet, has been so efficient that it warrants no significant concern from the coaching staff.

Despite Bridges’ less frequent trips to the free-throw line, his field shooting remains impressive. Cleaning the Glass notes that he has connected on 54 percent of his floater range attempts and a remarkable 72 percent from midrange. However, his free throw attempts account for only 2.5 percent of his field-goal attempts, significantly below his usual numbers.

The team as a whole has mirrored some of Bridges’ unconventional playing tendencies. Notably, the Knicks are placing fewer emphasis on driving fouls and three-pointers, which hold little resemblance to typical strategies seen under Thibodeau. As a result, the Knicks rank 28th in free-throw attempt rate and 17th in three-point attempt rate, according to recent statistics.

In terms of defensive performance, Bridges has struggled to replicate his previous strengths. Although he showcased his defensive prowess with a game-saving block against his former team, the Brooklyn Nets, the Knicks’ defense, when Bridges is on the court, has not met the anticipated standards. Curiously, the team’s performance metrics improve when Bridges is off the court, both offensively and defensively.

Bridges’ journey in Manhattan has been further complicated by the absence of key players such as Mitchell Robinson, who is recovering from ankle surgery, and Precious Achiuwa. Robinson’s return is poised to bring much-needed defensive stability to the team. Meanwhile, Karl-Anthony Towns, another significant trade acquisition, is enjoying a career-best season, providing a glimmer of hope for the Knicks’ evolving lineup.

On the offensive end, Bridges has demonstrated potential in back-to-the-basket plays and created scoring opportunities off the dribble, though such instances have been sporadic thus far. Acknowledging the adjustments required, Bridges has highlighted the importance of maneuvering the court smartly — not just focusing on three-pointers and layups.

While the Knicks are still adapting to their new team dynamics, there is optimism that Bridges, alongside stars like Julius Randle, will gradually find his footing. Bridges’ extensive playing time under Thibodeau signals the coach’s trust in his ability to adapt and eventually thrive in the Knicks’ system. As the season progresses, the team’s depth should improve, potentially enhancing both Bridges’ and the Knicks’ overall performance. Fans remain hopeful that with a bit more time, Bridges will emerge as a key player in the team’s efforts to compete at the upper echelons of the league.