Mikal Bridges: Navigating Shooting Challenges and New Beginnings
Mikal Bridges has long been recognized for his proficiency from beyond the arc, boasting a career average of 37.5% in three-point shooting. This remarkable statistic, however, contrasts sharply with his recent preseason performance, during which he faced significant struggles. Missing all ten of his three-point attempts against the Washington Wizards was a stark reminder that even seasoned players can face hurdles in maintaining their strengths.
Despite these recent woes, Bridges' track record provides ample reassurance. Throughout his NBA tenure, he has never dipped below a 36.1% three-point shooting percentage in any season. Last year, with the Brooklyn Nets, he achieved a 37.2% shooting efficiency from the three-point line on an average of 7.2 attempts per game. This consistency solidifies his reputation as a reliable shooter.
Further emphasizing his shooting prowess, Bridges was ranked seventh in the NBA for catch-and-shoot attempts last year, managing 5.6 per game and converting 38.4% of them into points. Such statistics not only highlight his value in offensive plays but also his ability to seize scoring opportunities under pressure.
Yet, it hasn't always been a seamless journey for Bridges. "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," he shared. His shooting mechanics, marred by a hitch that developed over time, have been a work in progress since his collegiate years. He elaborated, "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."
These adjustments reflect the ongoing evolution of NBA athletes as they strive for perfection amidst the dynamic challenges of professional play. For Bridges, this preseason has been an exploration phase — a time to experiment and make the necessary adjustments without the scorecard pressures of the regular season.
In a significant move, the New York Knicks acquired Bridges during the off-season, a decision that involved trading five first-round picks. This acquisition demonstrates the Knicks' belief in Bridges' potential to contribute significantly to their roster. However, it also adds a layer of expectation and pressure as Bridges seeks to recalibrate his shooting form while assimilating into a new team environment.
With the season drawing closer, Bridges faces the task of reconciling his preseason performances with his established skill set. The upcoming regular season will serve as the ultimate platform to showcase his potential and adaptability. While his preseason results may raise eyebrows, his history and determination suggest a strong likelihood of resurgence.
The narrative of professional sports is one of continuous adaptation and growth. For Bridges, his journey underscores the resilience required to overcome personal challenges and maintain a competitive edge. As he prepares for another season, the focus remains on refining his craft and living up to the trust that the Knicks have placed in him.
In a sport where mental and mechanical adjustments are as crucial as physical training, Bridges’ candid reflections offer an insightful glimpse into the journey of an elite athlete determined to perfect his game. As the Knicks look to capitalize on their investment, all eyes will be on Bridges to see how he rebounds from a challenging preseason and potentially becomes a cornerstone of their offensive strategy.