New York Knicks guard Josh Hart has openly praised teammate Mikal Bridges following Bridges’ impressive 30-point performance in a decisive 119-92 victory over the Toronto Raptors. This uplifting win comes on the heels of a challenging stretch for Bridges, who struggled significantly with his shooting during the early part of the year.
After the new year, Bridges faced a difficult 12-game period, managing just 41.9 percent shooting from the field and averaging only 13.8 points per game. His struggles were especially pronounced in a narrow 112-109 win against the Philadelphia 76ers on January 24, where he shot only 3-of-16, including a dismal 1-of-9 from three-point range. During this same timeframe, the Knicks stumbled with a 2-9 record over 11 games, prompting concerns within the team.
However, the tides have turned for Bridges. In his last two games, he has shown marked improvement, averaging 24.0 points per game while shooting an impressive 71.4 percent. During a postgame interview on the MSG Network, Bridges candidly reflected on his earlier struggles, admitting that his mindset and approach to the game were not up to par. When asked by Knicks legend Walt “Clyde” Frazier about his difficult shooting performance, Bridges acknowledged, “A lot. I think a lot of it comes from not just shooting the ball, I think I just wasn’t playing how I was supposed to be playing, I think I wasn’t coachable enough. I don’t know what it was, maybe I felt too much entitlement.”
This moment of self-reflection highlights Bridges’ commitment to growth and teamwork as he aims to contribute positively to the Knicks. Hart, who has shared a close bond with Bridges since their college days at Villanova, where they won a national championship together, emphasized the importance of Bridges’ recent turnaround. Hart himself also had a standout game, contributing 22 points, six assists, five rebounds, and two steals.
As the Knicks look to build momentum following a recent four-game win streak, Bridges’ resurgence, coupled with Hart’s leadership, offers a hopeful outlook for the team moving forward. The camaraderie forged between the two players may prove to be a valuable asset as the season progresses, marking a significant turning point in their performances and in the overall success of the Knicks.