The New York Knicks and their fans are optimistic about Mikal Bridges, their standout offseason acquisition. However, a former franchise star believes he might face challenges in adjusting to his new role. NBA legend Mike Bibby, who played for the Knicks during the 2011-12 season, pointed out that the Villanova alum will likely serve as the team’s third offensive option behind All-Stars Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle, a shift from his leading role with the Brooklyn Nets. Bibby argued that having fewer touches and less focus in the offense could affect Bridges’ performance.
Mike Bibby believes Mikal Bridges’ offensive situation with the Knicks is up in the air
In a recent appearance on Scoop B. Radio with Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson, former No. 2 overall pick Mike Bibby shared his thoughts on Mikal Bridges’ upcoming season (as relayed by Geoff Magliocchetti of New York Knicks on SI):
“You have to see it play out,” Bibby remarked during his interview. “He was the No. 1 option in Brooklyn. When you join a new team and you’re no longer the top option, you have to see how a player adapts to that role.”
There’s significant excitement surrounding Bridges’ debut for several reasons. Many believe he’ll excel in New York due to the strong bond he has with former college teammates Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, and Donte DiVincenzo. Moreover, at 28, Bridges’ playing style doesn’t require him to dominate the ball, so he won’t need a high volume of touches to be effective on offense.
Will Bridges’ chemistry with his teammates ease his transition into the Knicks’ offense?
Bibby raises a valid point. As a former star for the Sacramento Kings, a championship contender in the early and mid-2000s, he understands the challenge of transitioning from being the focal point of an offense to a supporting role. Bibby, the Kings’ primary playmaker during his time, has insight into what Bridges might face. After being traded from the Phoenix Suns to the Brooklyn Nets before the 2022-23 deadline, Bridges saw his shot attempts rise from 13.6 per game with Phoenix to 18.6 per game in Brooklyn, before stabilizing at 15.8 FGA in the 2023-24 season.
Such fluctuations in shot attempts can be difficult to manage, but Bridges’ offensive workload in New York is expected to remain similar. With Brunson projected to take over 19 shots per game and Randle more than 17, Bridges might need to adjust his role. Additionally, his defensive responsibilities could take precedence, potentially reducing his offensive touches. However, the extent of Bridges’ involvement in Tom Thibodeau’s offense will largely depend on his performance during training camp and preseason as he vies for a key role in the upcoming season.
Leave a Reply