How Mikal Bridges has stepped up for Knicks in Jalen Brunson's absence

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In the wake of New York’s captain and leading scorer Jalen Brunson injuring his ankle, many questions arose about how the Knicks would respond in his absence after playing 61 of their 62 games with him at the helm.

Some suggested his injury would force the Knicks to learn how to play and win without him, which would be a beneficial development as the playoffs near. One player in particular is proving this theory right — Mikal Bridges.

The starting shooting guard acquired for a bundle of first-round picks has had an up-and-down season, but he has stepped up since Brunson went down.

In his last five games, Bridges is averaging 23.4 points, 3.6 rebounds and 4.6 assists on 63.4/47.1/95.0 shooting splits, helping the Knicks go 3-2 without their best player.

It’s been a departure from Bridges’ season averages of 17.2 points, 3.1 rebounds and 3.4 assists on 48.8/35.0/72.7, stemming from newfound aggressiveness and trust in his ability to create and score. He’s looked much more like the guy New York hoped they would get when emptying their asset chest this past offseason, and the hope is he’ll continue this approach once Brunson returns and the postseason begins.

Bridges is actively seeking out his own creation opportunities, calling for more pick-and-rolls with himself as the ball handler, and putting an emphasis on getting into the paint. This has not only opened up easier close-range scoring opportunities for Bridges but more playmaking chances — an underrated part of his game.

Where Bridges used to be more connective in the offense, he’s now initiating, leveraging defenses with his scoring threat and finding open shooters and cutters. There’s an argument for him being the third-best passer on the team, and it seems he and the Knicks have realized this and taken advantage.

New York Knicks small forward Mikal Bridges (25) celebrates with teammates after making the game-winning shot in overtime against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center. / Soobum Im-Imagn Images

Another benefit of his attacking offense: he’s finally getting to the free-throw line. Bridges had…

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Source link : https://sny.tv/articles/mikal-bridges-stepped-up-knicks-jalen-brunson-2025

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Publish date : 2025-03-19 14:00:00

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