The Journey of Mikal Bridges: Navigating the Shooting Maze
Mikal Bridges has long been recognized as a sharpshooter in the NBA, priding himself on a career average of 37.5% from beyond the arc. Yet, the journey has been anything but straightforward for the player who continues to grapple with mechanical issues that date back to his college days.
Despite the hurdles, Bridges has consistently maintained a high standard in his three-point shooting, never dipping below 36.1% in any NBA season. This consistency is a testament to his resilience and dedication, even as he openly acknowledges the ongoing battle with his shooting form. "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 reflects.
Performance Under Pressure
Last season with the Brooklyn Nets, Bridges secured a 37.2% efficiency from three-point range, taking an average of 7.2 attempts per game. His proficiency earned him a ranking of seventh in the NBA for catch-and-shoot attempts, converting an impressive 38.4% out of 5.6 attempts per game. These figures underline his status as a reliable perimeter threat, a crucial asset in today's fast-paced, three-point-heavy game.
However, in a recent preseason stint, the normally dependable shooter stumbled. Bridges had a rough patch, missing all ten of his three-point attempts in a game against the Washington Wizards, culminating in an overall 2 of 19 from beyond the arc during four preseason games. Meanwhile, it’s important to contextualize these numbers; the preseason is often a period of experimentation and adjustment, offering players the opportunity to fine-tune their skills away from the pressures of regular-season play.
The Path Forward with the Knicks
The New York Knicks, eager to fortify their roster, acquired Bridges during the offseason, paying a hefty price of five first-round picks. This acquisition underscores the value placed on Bridges' potential and established track record, despite his recent shooting struggles. The move represents a fresh start for Bridges, an opportunity to adapt his game and further refine his shooting technique. His ongoing efforts to overcome his mechanical issues speak to his determination. "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," he explains.
For Bridges, the challenge is not simply about numbers; it's an intricate dance of muscle memory and mental fortitude. Each shot, each practice session is a step towards reclaiming his natural form—a quest he's ardently pursued for nearly a decade.
A Determined Pursuit
As the new season unfolds, all eyes will be on Mikal Bridges as he aims to blend past techniques with present innovations. His story is emblematic of the inner workings of a professional athlete's life—one marked by constant evolution and the relentless pursuit of excellence. With his unwavering focus and dedication, Bridges is poised to navigate through this phase, enhancing not only his technical skillset but also reinforcing his place within the NBA's elite shooters.
For a player like Bridges, the process may be arduous, but the resolve to "get it right" is as steadfast as his commitment to the sport. While every preseason shot might not hit its mark, each attempt is an integral piece of his broader journey toward basketball excellence. As the Knicks look to cement their standings this season, much will depend on how Bridges leverages this period of adjustment to return stronger than ever, channeling past learnings into future successes.