The New York Knicks recently made a significant acquisition by trading for Mikal Bridges in a blockbuster deal with the Brooklyn Nets. The Knicks received Bridges, Keita Bates-Diop, and a future second-round pick in exchange for Bojan Bogdanovic, Shake Milton, Mamadi Diakite, five future first-round picks, a first-round pick swap, and a future second-round pick.
CBS Sports writer Brad Botkin praised the Knicks’ trade as the best move of the NBA offseason. He highlighted Bridges’ fit with New York, particularly his defensive impact alongside the re-signed OG Anunoby. Botkin noted, “New York’s defense goes to another level with Bridges and the re-signing of OG Anunoby. … This is to say nothing of Bridges’ offense. He’s a 20-point scorer who is best suited scoring a little less than that. Overtasked in Brooklyn, Bridges slots perfectly as a space shooter and secondary creator who allows for the clarity of Jalen Brunson’s offensive control to continue. The Knicks are a title contender, no question about it.”
The Knicks won 50 games last season without Bridges, and his addition, along with a full season from Anunoby, should only enhance their performance. The team had a strong record of 20-3 with Anunoby on the floor, and while maintaining that pace over an 82-game season might be challenging, the Knicks are expected to be formidable. The health of Julius Randle will also play a crucial role in the team’s success.
Bridges is seen as the key piece that ties everything together. His versatility allows him to fit into various lineups, making him a highly valuable player. Additionally, his existing chemistry with Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, and Donte DiVincenzo bolsters the Knicks’ potential as a title contender for the upcoming season.
