Mikal Bridges Reflects on Personal Accountability
Mikal Bridges has recently turned introspective. After scoring 30 points that helped the Knicks secure a win against the Raptors in Toronto, Bridges candidly shared his thoughts during a broadcast, admitting he once “felt too entitled” and lacked guidance.
Interestingly, this realization didn’t come from a coach or a teammate but rather from his own reflection.
In a conversation after their victory over the Lakers at Madison Square Garden, Bridges stated, “Accountability is really important for me. I’ve been spending a lot of time on my own, just trying to figure out what I need to improve. One big thing I noticed is that I didn’t take enough responsibility for what was happening. And, well, I didn’t receive the guidance I should have.”
Meanwhile, Coach Mike Brown mentioned he hadn’t seen Bridges’ comments but emphasized that the player is receptive to coaching.
Bridges has also observed a shift in how he approaches the game now. “It lets us play more freely. I don’t focus on anything else and just concentrate on playing the right way,” he explained.
On another note, guard Miles McBride will be out for the fourth consecutive game against the Wizards due to managing a left ankle injury. Additionally, Mitchell Robinson will also not be participating, marking the start of back-to-back games.
It’s clear that whatever Brown and his team discussed during halftime is making an impact. The Knicks are currently in the midst of a six-game winning streak, especially shining in the second halves of the games.
In these last six games, the Knicks have shown a second-half net rating of 42.3 points, which is notably the best in the NBA for that time frame—the Cavaliers are trailing significantly at 19.7 points per game.
In contrast, the Knicks had a net rating of just 7.1 points in the first half, placing them eighth in the league during that period.
Brown commented, “This team is mature and competitive. We just communicate what we see, and often the players rectify it themselves. It’s more about concentrating on the small details rather than every play.”
During this winning streak, opponents have shot 41.7% when contested by Jalen Brunson, based on NBA tracking stats.
“I feel like I’ve been improving lately,” Brunson shared after the victory against the Lakers. “I’ll keep trying my best. I’m committed to being a rim protector and will find ways to contribute defensively whenever I can.”
