What Makes Bridges So Appealing?
Let’s start with the obvious. Mikal Bridges is a 6’6”, 23-year-old small forward with a 7’1″ wingspan. His arms are freakishly long. The dude is designed to play in the modern NBA. He is long, he is quick, and he is athletic. Sprinkle in a championship pedigree obtained at Villanova, and you have a talent with promise.
Contractually, he is in year 2 of a 3 year, $12M deal that includes a 4th year club option. His standard rookie deal allows for the Suns, or whoever obtains him, to manage him accordingly as they develop him.
Mikal’s defense is what Suns fans have grown to love. Who doesn’t take pleasure in watching him jump a lazy pass and turn it into a fast break? Who doesn’t love when he stretches those arms out and squats in defensive mode as he prepares to defend LeBron James?
The more Bridges executes on the defensive end, the more he finds his offensive identity as well. He has seen an increase in minutes recently due to his efforts. The more playing time he gets, the more he is on display for the league to see.