There are still many NBA fans who believe the New York Knicks’ trade for Mikal Bridges was one of the most lopsided deals in basketball history. Having sent five first-round picks and a second-rounder, it remains the largest amount of draft capital ever included in a trade for a non–All-Star.
Although some might argue that Bridges hasn’t fully found his footing or is still figuring out where he fits within a loaded offense, one part of his game has remained a constant: his defense. After Wednesday night’s 113-111 win over the Dallas Mavericks, Bridges finished with 16 points, six assists, five rebounds, two blocks, and three steals.
Over his last three games, Bridges has averaged 18.0 points, five assists, 2.7 blocks, and four steals, making him the first and only player in NBA history to record more than 50 points, 5+ made threes, 12+ steals, and 8+ blocks over a three-game stretch. The last player to post at least 50 points, 12+ steals, and 8+ blocks over a three-game span was none other than Dwyane Wade in 2008.
It’s clear that Bridges’ role with the Knicks has shifted. He’s no longer the first scoring option as he was at times with the Brooklyn Nets, but rather the team’s third or fourth option. His scoring has dipped incrementally across his two seasons in New York, but he’s averaging career highs in both steals and blocks.
Bridges currently ranks third in the NBA in combined steals and blocks with 46. Toronto Raptors forward Scottie Barnes sits in second with 47, while Victor Wembanyama leads the league with an absurd 56 — in only 12 games.
One of the biggest concerns surrounding New York’s retooled roster has been its defensive consistency. Despite ranking 12th in opponent points allowed, the Knicks sit 28th in opponent three-point percentage at 39.1%.
New York will need to clean up many aspects defensively, but it’s clear that everyone—outside of Mikal Bridges—needs to step up.
More Knicks news:
- Knicks Jalen Brunson set to return to action vs. Former team Mavericks
- Knicks’ head coach Mike Brown addresses team’s lackluster defense
- Knicks’ Josh Hart could see increased playing time in light of OG Anunoby’s injury
- This $9 million guard would be perfect backup for Knicks, Jalen Brunson