For many NBA players, the preseason is a time of fine-tuning, a period where both physical and mental aspects of the game undergo rigorous checks and adjustments. For Mikal Bridges, newly acquired by the New York Knicks in an offseason trade that saw an astonishing five first-round picks changing hands, this period has highlighted a longstanding challenge: his shooting mechanics. With a career three-point average of 37.5%, shooting from beyond the arc has generally been a bedrock of Bridges' game. However, recent performances suggest that the road to mechanical perfection in his shooting form has been anything but straightforward.
The Mechanical Challenge
"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 candidly shared. It’s a process emblematic of the adjustments NBA players make over time, often trading instant fixes for a deeper pursuit of consistency and accuracy. "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."
Despite these challenges, Bridges has maintained a robust three-point shooting record across all his NBA seasons, never dipping below 36.1%. Last year with the Brooklyn Nets, he achieved a commendable 37.2% efficiency on 7.2 attempts per game, highlighting his determination to remain competitive even amidst technical struggles.
Preseason Struggles
Yet, the recent preseason statistics tell a tale of struggle. Against the Washington Wizards, Bridges missed all ten of his three-point attempts, and over four games, his shooting performance stood at 2 of 19 from deep. These numbers might concern Knicks fans eager for their team's new acquisition to live up to his reputation as a sharp-shooter.
However, it’s crucial to remember the primary purpose of preseason games. Often seen as opportunities for players to experiment and adapt – elements essential for ironing out wrinkles in form and strategy before the regular season intensifies – they offer players like Bridges the space to confront and rectify these mechanical issues without the pressure of official league standings.
The Catch-and-Shoot Specialist
In the catch-and-shoot category, a crucial aspect of modern NBA play, Bridges ranked seventh for attempts last season, averaging 5.6 per game and converting 38.4% of those shots. Such a high volume underscores his role as a reliable option beyond the arc, a skill that the Knicks undoubtedly hope to capitalize on as they integrate him into their system.
Transitioning into a new team dynamic is never without its challenges, and for Bridges, the move to New York represents not just a change in scenery but a defining opportunity to align his shooting form with his potential impact on the court. The Knicks’ investment in Bridges is reflective of their faith in his ability not only to rebound from mechanical difficulties but to emerge as a leading figure in their quest for success this season.
Looking Forward
For the Knicks' faithful, patience will be key. Bridges' journey back to his collegiate shooting form is a testament to his work ethic and commitment, qualities that align perfectly with the grit and tenacity New York fans cherish. As the regular season approaches, Bridges’ potential to harness his strengths and rectify his weaknesses may well dictate the Knicks' fortunes.
The narrative of Mikal Bridges is not merely one of numbers and statistics. It is a narrative of resilience and the relentless pursuit of improvement. If his past performance is any indicator, Bridges will tweak, adjust, and strive. Armed with lessons from his preseason trials, he is poised to return to form, bringing both his sharpshooting talents and determined spirit to New York's storied franchise.