Mikal Bridges’ Career Statistics
Mikal Bridges has established himself as a reliable and versatile player in the NBA. Throughout his career, he has consistently showcased his defensive prowess and offensive contributions. Let’s delve into his career statistics to gain a deeper understanding of his strengths and weaknesses.
Points Per Game
- Career Average: 9.7 points per game
- Best Season: 12.4 points per game (2021-22)
Bridges’ scoring average has gradually improved over the years, showcasing his offensive development. While not a prolific scorer, he provides a consistent scoring threat with efficient shooting.
Rebounds Per Game
- Career Average: 4.7 rebounds per game
- Best Season: 5.3 rebounds per game (2020-21)
As a wing player, Bridges contributes significantly on the boards. His strong frame and athleticism allow him to compete for rebounds against bigger opponents.
Assists Per Game
- Career Average: 2.0 assists per game
- Best Season: 2.8 assists per game (2022-23)
Bridges has shown steady improvement in his playmaking ability. He can create opportunities for his teammates and facilitate the offense.
Steals Per Game
- Career Average: 1.5 steals per game
- Best Season: 1.9 steals per game (2021-22)
Defense is where Bridges truly excels. His quick hands and anticipation make him a menace on the defensive end, leading to numerous steals and turnovers for the opposition.
Blocks Per Game
- Career Average: 0.5 blocks per game
- Best Season: 0.7 blocks per game (2020-21)
While not a prolific shot-blocker, Bridges uses his length and athleticism to disrupt opponents’ shots and protect the rim.
Mikal Bridges’ Impact on the Phoenix Suns
Mikal Bridges has been a key contributor to the Phoenix Suns’ success in recent seasons. He has played a significant role in their defensive scheme and has also contributed to their offensive production.
Defensive Impact, Mikal bridges
Bridges is one of the best perimeter defenders in the NBA. He has a long wingspan and quick feet, which allows him to stay in front of his opponents. He is also a very good rebounder for his position, which helps the Suns to secure defensive rebounds.
In the 2021-22 season, Bridges was named to the NBA All-Defensive Second Team. He was also ranked third in the NBA in defensive rating among players who played at least 1,000 minutes.
Offensive Impact
Bridges is not just a defensive specialist. He is also a capable scorer and shooter. He has a good mid-range shot and is also a threat from three-point range.
In the 2021-22 season, Bridges averaged 12.3 points per game. He also shot 36.4% from three-point range.
Bridges’ offensive production has been especially important for the Suns in the playoffs. In the 2021 NBA Finals, Bridges averaged 14.3 points per game and shot 42.9% from three-point range.
Specific Examples
Here are a few examples of specific games or plays where Bridges made a significant impact:
* In Game 1 of the 2021 NBA Finals, Bridges had 14 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists. He also hit a key three-pointer in the fourth quarter to help the Suns win the game.
* In Game 4 of the 2021 NBA Finals, Bridges had 17 points and 6 rebounds. He also played excellent defense on Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo.
* In the 2022 NBA Playoffs, Bridges averaged 13.4 points per game and shot 40.3% from three-point range. He was a key contributor to the Suns’ run to the NBA Finals.
Mikal Bridges’ Future Prospects
Mikal Bridges is poised to have a bright future in the NBA. He is a young, talented player who has already shown flashes of brilliance. With continued hard work and dedication, he has the potential to become one of the best players in the league.
Potential for Growth and Improvement
Bridges has a number of areas where he can continue to improve. He can become a more consistent shooter, a better ball-handler, and a more well-rounded defender. If he can make these improvements, he will become an even more valuable player for the Suns.
Contract Situation and Possible Destinations
Bridges is currently under contract with the Suns until the end of the 2024-25 season. After that, he will be an unrestricted free agent. If he does not sign an extension with the Suns, he could become one of the most sought-after free agents on the market.
There are a number of teams that could be interested in signing Bridges if he becomes a free agent. Some of the most likely destinations include the Los Angeles Lakers, the Miami Heat, and the New York Knicks.
Chances of Becoming an All-Star or Winning Major Awards
Bridges has the potential to become an All-Star and win major awards in the future. He is a talented player who is still developing. If he can continue to improve, he has the potential to be one of the best players in the league.
Mikal Bridges’ athleticism and defensive prowess make him a valuable asset to any team. His ability to guard multiple positions allows him to match up against versatile players like Jonas Valanciunas , a skilled big man with a soft touch around the rim.
Bridges’ quick reflexes and lateral movement make it difficult for opponents to get past him, and his long wingspan allows him to contest shots from anywhere on the court.
Mikal Bridges, the tenacious wing for the Brooklyn Nets, has consistently showcased his defensive prowess on the court. His lockdown abilities have drawn comparisons to another defensive stalwart, Quinten Post. Post, a former NBA champion with the Seattle SuperSonics, was renowned for his relentless on-ball defense and ability to disrupt opponents’ rhythm.
Bridges, inspired by Post’s tenacity, has incorporated similar principles into his own game, making him a formidable force on the defensive end.
