The Boston Celtics secured the 2024 NBA championship, prompting the New York Knicks’ president Leon Rose to enhance his roster significantly. In a bold move, Rose acquired 6’6” forward Mikal Bridges from the Brooklyn Nets, demonstrating a vision for a robust and gritty defensive wing duo to challenge their rivals.
Bridges quickly forged a strong partnership with OG Anunoby, forming a formidable defensive front nicknamed “Wingstop.” Their synergy proved vital in the Knicks’ successful campaign that saw them eliminate the defending champion Celtics from the 2025 NBA Playoffs, a testament to the effectiveness of their defensive prowess.
As the 2025-26 season progresses, Bridges has escalated his performance, particularly in the absence of Anunoby, who is recovering from a hamstring strain. During Anunoby’s recent games on the sidelines, Bridges has risen to the occasion, averaging 18.2 points, 2.4 steals, 2.0 blocks, and exhibiting impressive shooting percentages of 61.7% from the field and 40.0% from three-point range over the last five games. These statistics not only highlight his ability to adapt but also surpass his season averages, showcasing his growth as a player.
This season has marked a career pinnacle for Bridges, who is posting personal bests in rebounds (4.6), steals (2.1), and blocks (1.2) per game. Currently, he stands out as the only player in the league achieving over two steals and one block on a nightly basis, complemented by a field goal percentage exceeding 52% and a three-point shooting rate near 41%.
Knicks’ head coach Mike Brown praised Bridges’ impact on the team, emphasizing his speed, shooting skill, and defensive tenacity, describing him as one of the best runners in the NBA. With a remarkable streak of injury-free games dating back to high school, Bridges has proven to be an invaluable asset to the Knicks this season, which may push fans to advocate for further strategic moves involving the Nets.
The enthusiasm around Bridges’ performance and the Knicks’ potential as a contender underscores a hopeful outlook for the remainder of the season. As the team continues to build upon their successes, the combination of Bridges and Anunoby may well become a cornerstone of a promising campaign for New York.