Mikal Bridges Shines as Knicks Outlast Spurs in Christmas Showdown

NEW YORK — Mikal Bridges delivered a career-defining performance on Christmas Day, scoring 41 points to lead the New York Knicks to a thrilling victory over the San Antonio Spurs at Madison Square Garden. The 27-year-old forward dominated the fourth quarter, scoring 15 points, including a game-sealing jumper, to secure the win.

Bridges, acquired in a blockbuster trade from the Brooklyn Nets earlier this year, showcased his versatility and resilience. His standout moment came late in the third quarter when he converted a tough and-one play, tying the game and igniting the crowd. “When you see someone put the work in, you know what they’re capable of,” said teammate Josh Hart, who played with Bridges at Villanova. “We knew it was a matter of time before he found ‘it.’ Now he’s found it.”

The Knicks’ victory was a bright spot in what has been an adjustment period for Bridges. After struggling with his shooting early in the season, he has found his rhythm, posting an effective field goal percentage of 65.7% in December, the best in the NBA among players with at least 15 shots per game. His midrange shooting has been particularly effective, hitting 50% of his 2-point jumpers, ranking fifth in the league.

Defensively, Bridges has taken on a new role, often guarding opposing point guards. Against the Atlanta Hawks earlier this month, he faced a league-high 50 screens while defending Trae Young. Despite the physical toll, Bridges has embraced the challenge. “With every team, it’s obviously a slightly different role. I’m just trying to do the best I can, honestly,” he told ESPN.

The Knicks’ success this season has largely hinged on Bridges’ ability to adapt. His reduced ballhandling responsibilities—down to 67.9 touches per game from 82.4 last season—have allowed him to focus on efficiency. However, his free-throw attempts have dropped significantly, averaging just one per game compared to nearly four last season.

As the Knicks prepare to face the Nets in Brooklyn, Bridges’ performance will be under scrutiny. The team has excelled against weaker opponents, going 16-3 against sub-.500 teams, but has struggled against elite competition, posting a 12-13 record against teams .500 or better. Bridges’ ability to elevate his game in high-stakes matchups will be key to the Knicks’ playoff aspirations.

“You want everyone to make sacrifices for the betterment of the team, and he’s done that,” said Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau. “He has played really good basketball for us. And as time goes on, it’ll get better and better.”