New York Knicks’ High Hopes Threatened by Mikal Bridges’ Baffling Jump Shot Change
The Trade That Raised Hopes
In a high-stakes trade, the Knicks gave up a massive package to bring Bridges to New York, including five first-round picks and scoring forward Bojan Bogdanovic. This move united Bridges with his former Villanova teammates, bringing a high level of chemistry and defensive prowess to New York. While Bridges has not yet been named an All-Star, his consistent three-point shooting (38% over his career) and defensive abilities made him a promising fit.
A Puzzling New Jump Shot
Unexpectedly, Bridges debuted a new jump shot this preseason that has sparked concerns. Unlike his previous, more fluid form, his new shot is slower, more vertical, and noticeably less effective. Fans and analysts alike were baffled by this change, as Bridges had been a consistent shooter throughout his career, reaching as high as 43% from beyond the arc during his third year. In comparison, the new shot mirrors the infamous “hitch” that plagued former first-overall pick Markelle Fultz in Philadelphia. Even NBA star Anthony Edwards seemed unimpressed, questioning the necessity of Bridges’ adjustment.
Why Fix What Wasn’t Broken?
One of the most confusing aspects of Bridges’ new form is the absence of any clear reason for the change. Last season, he was shooting an impressive 37% on a high volume of attempts, making him one of the Knicks’ most reliable outside threats. In his four preseason games with the new shot, however, Bridges struggled, shooting an abysmal 2-for-19 from beyond the arc, including a 0-for-10 outing against the Washington Wizards. Knicks fans are rightfully worried: a player who was meant to be a vital part of the team’s offense now looks shaky at best.
Impact on the Knicks’ Strategy
Bridges’ shift in shooting mechanics has far-reaching implications for the Knicks’ offense. The team brought him in not only for his defensive contributions but also to be a dependable spot-up shooter alongside primary ball-handler Jalen Brunson. If Bridges continues to struggle from three, it could hinder the Knicks’ spacing and force Brunson and other playmakers to shoulder an even heavier load on offense.
The Knicks also traded away some key players to acquire Karl-Anthony Towns in a separate move, leaving them with a roster heavy on offensive expectations but potentially vulnerable without a reliable shooter in Bridges’ spot. As the Knicks look to contend with elite Eastern Conference teams like the Boston Celtics and Milwaukee Bucks, Bridges’ shooting will be crucial.
Can Bridges Bounce Back?
Bridges has publicly stated that he has been working on refining his jump shot since college, aiming to recapture his form from his Villanova days. However, some question whether the timing and extent of this change were prudent, especially given that he had been shooting consistently well in the NBA. Unlike players like Lonzo Ball, who improved after making necessary adjustments to a struggling shot, Bridges wasn’t lacking in this area.
In the Knicks’ season opener against the Boston Celtics, Bridges went 7-for-13 from the field, finishing with 16 points. Despite this respectable performance, he was still just 2-for-7 from beyond the arc, a concerning stat for a player expected to bolster New York’s perimeter game.
Potential Outcomes for the Knicks
If Bridges can quickly adjust and regain his shooting touch, this issue may soon be forgotten. However, if the struggle continues, the Knicks may find themselves with a glaring gap in their offensive scheme. Bridges’ defensive synergy with teammates Hart and OG Anunoby has been promising, but without the shooting consistency, the Knicks could be handicapped offensively in high-stakes matchups.
The decision to trade so much for Bridges adds pressure on him to perform. With expectations high and his shooting mechanics under intense scrutiny, Knicks fans can only hope that Bridges finds his rhythm before his struggles become a season-defining narrative.
