Bridges' Shooting Journey: A Road of Tweaks and Triumphs
Mikal Bridges, known for his sharpshooting prowess beyond the arc, has carved out a significant reputation in the NBA with a career average of 37.5% from three-point range. Yet, the preseason has thrown an unexpected curveball at the new New York Knicks acquisition, as he faces the challenge of refining his shooting mechanics in the wake of recent underwhelming performances.
Bridges, who never dipped below a 36.1% three-point shooting percentage in any NBA season, missed all ten of his three-point attempts in a preseason game against the Washington Wizards. This uncharacteristic slump extended across four preseason games, where he managed just 2 of 19 from deep, raising eyebrows among fans and analysts alike. Despite this dip in form, preseason remains a time for trial and adjustment—a period that many players, like Bridges, use to iron out any wrinkles in their game.
His journey in perfecting his shot has been a consistent part of Bridges' career story. "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 confessed. His shooting mechanics have been a focus of continuous refinement since he first noticed issues during his collegiate days.
The Brooklyn Nets, who benefited from Bridges' 37.2% efficiency last season over 7.2 attempts per game, undoubtedly saw his shooting as a pivotal element of his game. In the catch-and-shoot category, Bridges ranked seventh in the NBA for attempts, at 5.6 per game, with a commendable conversion rate of 38.4%. These statistics underscore the essential nature of his shooting form to his overall performance and effectiveness on the court.
Acquired by the Knicks in a high-profile offseason trade that saw them part with five first-round picks, Bridges' transition to one of the league's most media-intensive environments comes with unique pressures. Yet, he faces these challenges with determination, recalling how he adjusted after his second year in the league. "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," Bridges explained.
The road has been anything but straightforward for Bridges, yet his resilience is a testament to the work he continues to put in each day. Mechanical nuances in his shooting technique may be his current hurdle, but with a track record of near-consistent three-point production, there's a lingering confidence that Bridges will find his groove once more.
For Bridges, the upcoming season presents an opportunity to demonstrate that his shooting form can transcend the experimental nature of preseason. The Knicks, eager to capitalize on their hefty investment, will look to Bridges to bring his scoring capability and sharpshooting efficiency as they eye success in the upcoming regular season. Fans and critics alike will be watching intently as Bridges aims to shake off his preseason slump, eager to return to the court with confidence and precision.