New Knicks coach Mike Brown went out of his way to highlight Mikal Bridges’ work ethic at Media Day this week, noting that Bridges has been in the gym almost every day, sometimes twice a day.
What is he
doing in the gym, exactly? Bridges said he is working on creating more off the dribble, which is great. We just hope he isn’t tinkering with his shot again. Last season, he emerged from camp with an awkward shooting form that made everyone scratch their heads.
During his 20 minutes at the mic this week, Bridges focused on his recent contract extension, reflected on last season’s Eastern Conference Finals loss, expressed excitement for the new coaching regime under Brown, and embraced the idea of a deeper rotation.
His commitment to the team seems legitimate. Bridges, who has never missed a game in his collegiate or professional career, emphasized a team-first mentality, particularly in explaining his decision to sign a four-year, $150 million extension ($6 million below the max) through 2029, with a 2030 player option. “If I came here, preaching about how much I want to win, and I try to take every dollar to make it difficult for the organization? I’ll seem like a fraud. That’s not who I am. I want to win bad.”
Last year, his first with the Knicks, reunited him with Villanova teammates Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart. Despite some playoff heroics, it wasn’t an easy debut season in New York. Fans grew frustrated with his inconsistency, reluctance to draw contact, and hesitancy to shoot. Exhibit A: the overtime loss to Lakers on March 6, 2025, when Mikal played 43 minutes but attempted just six shots, finishing with six points.
“Last year was tough,” said Bridges, striking a mature tone. “A lot of people thought I might be upset because they were getting on me a little too hard. But I think I was more mad at myself in the situation, because everything they want is what I want. […] We all want the same goal.”
He added, “I love it here. I love the fans, the culture, the staff, the front office, the teammates. That’s probably the biggest thing.”
Embarking on his eighth NBA campaign, Bridges is embracing an expanded leadership role. He said he’s mentoring younger players, calling it an opportunity he’s never had before. “The young dudes, they’re hilarious. Kinda makes me think what I was coming out of college,” he said. “Great dudes, great kids. Biggest thing about them is they work hard. Seeing how much they’ve gotten better…is really cool.”
Last season, the 29-year-old 3&D wing averaged 17.6 points while playing all 82 games. He also set a career high in minutes per game (37) and led the league with 3,036 total minutes. Considering Brown’s comments, Bridges may play fewer minutes this year—so perhaps the same amount of wear and tear, after all?
Following the summer break, the slate is wiped clean. A new coach brings the promise of positive improvements. Make no mistake, though: Bridges will be a starter on a team with championship aspirations. If he starts passing up open shots again, the Garden crowd won’t hesitate to express its feelings.
Go Knicks.
