The Perception of Mikal Bridges
Mikal Bridges has slowed down a beat offensively from his outstanding and aggressive play in the bubble exhibition games, but it doesn’t matter. Mikal is getting a lot of notice for the outstanding defense he has played through the four regular-season games.
When only a handful of games are played each day and the basketball world is tuned in 24/7, play gets noticed much more than in the normal basketball atmosphere. Putting the clamps on Kawhi Leonard and Paul George (combined 2-10 when guarded by Bridges), T.J. Warren, and Luka Doncic GOT NOTICED.
That play has led the NBA world to take note of his advanced defensive statistics from both last year and this year. Those stats, the statement games, and the eye test showing his crazy long arms and defensive smarts are getting terms like “future All-Defensive Team member” now being thrown around by NBA people.
Mikal has shown the skill set to be a good offensive player. His long arms and slashing ability compliment a now beautiful 3-point stroke. He hasn’t shown to be aggressive on offense outside of the exhibition games – yet.
Based on Mikal Bridges’ growth in his second season, there is a plausible path forward for him becoming much more than an outstanding 3 & D player. He’s shown a mid-range game that wasn’t evident before bubble play. Combined with a smoother 3-point shot and an uncanny slashing ability, Mikal Bridges could be in All-Star conversations if his trajectory remains at this level next season.
On the topic of upward trajectory: