Mikal Bridges: Shooting Struggles and Adjustments
Mikal Bridges has carved out a reputation in the NBA as a dependable shooter, particularly from beyond the arc, where he boasts a career average of 37.5%. However, his recent preseason performance has raised eyebrows and questions about his shooting mechanics.
Preseason Setbacks
Bridges found himself in an uncharacteristic slump during the preseason, highlighted by a tough outing against the Washington Wizards where he missed all ten of his attempts from three-point range. Over four preseason games, his shooting from deep was a dismal 2 of 19, a stark contrast to his consistent regular-season performances.
Despite this preseason hiccup, Bridges has maintained a strong track record, never dipping below 36.1% from three-point territory in any NBA season. His time with the Brooklyn Nets last year was indicative of his prowess, as he managed a 37.2% efficiency on an impressive volume of 7.2 attempts per game. His skill was especially apparent in catch-and-shoot scenarios, where he ranked seventh in the league for attempts, converting 38.4% of his 5.6 opportunities per game.
Mechanics Under the Microscope
Bridges' journey with his shooting form has been a long and challenging one. Since his college days, he has battled mechanical issues that have lingered throughout his professional career. "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 reflected, highlighting the persistent struggle to regain his original shooting form.
His shooting adjustments began shortly after college, he explains: "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."
A New Chapter with the Knicks
In the offseason, Bridges became a key acquisition for the New York Knicks, who traded five first-round picks to bring him on board. This move reflects the value placed on Bridges' potential to be a consistent perimeter threat, something the Knicks are hoping he can deliver in the upcoming season.
Preseason is traditionally a time for experimentation and adjustment, offering players like Bridges the opportunity to refine their skills and address any underlying issues before the regular season challenges commence. While his recent shooting woes may be concerning, they also serve as a valuable period for fine-tuning and recalibration.
As Bridges integrates into a new team environment, he must not only adapt to new systems and teammates but also continue working on his shooting form. The Knicks' investment in Bridges signifies their belief in his ability to overcome these hurdles and contribute significantly to their efforts.
Mikal Bridges finds himself at a pivotal juncture in his career, where the balance of addressing personal mechanical issues and fulfilling the high expectations of his new team will be crucial. As the new NBA season looms, all eyes will be on Bridges to see if he can reclaim his form and remain a steadfast shooter on the court.