Welp. There it is.
The whole "Bridges to the Knicks" concept felt so obvious that it almost seemed like it wouldn't happen because it was such a perfect thing that needed to happen. Plus, there is still that underwhelming feeling that good things like that don't happen to us.
Well, not anymore. Mikal Bridges is a Knick, and it is official.
This organization finally pushed all of its picks into the middle of the table and swung for the big move we all knew was inevitable.
Here is the final story on that deal:
NYK Receives: Mikal Bridges, Keita Bates-Diop, 2026 MIL/DET/ORL 2nd (least favorable)
BKN Receives: Bojan Bogdanovic, Shake Milton (sign-and-trade), Mamadi Diakite, 2025 NYK 1st, 2025 MIL 1st, 2027 NYK 1st, 2028 NYK Swap Rights, 2029 NYK 1st, 2031 NYK 1st, 2025 BKN 2nd
Some love the deal. Others thought we overpaid. And of course, the national media will #knicksforclicks this thing...
Here are some quick thoughts on Bridges to the Knicks for this Knicks fan:
OVERPAY OR ALL IN?
Did they give up a lot? Yup. Am I concerned? No.
For as long as we can remember, the narrative around the Knicks (whether it is justified or not) was that the Knicks needed a superstar. Well, they ended up producing their superstar by way of finding talent in Julius Randle and Jalen Brunson.
Mikal Bridges seems to fit into the culture, their way of playing, and the already fluid chemistry among the team. Also, Bridges has been a number one option with Brooklyn. Now, he can settle into being an option, and if he's got it going, then yeah, go off.
For this fan, I'm tired of "waiting for Superman". I'm tired of collecting draft picks and clearing cap space. The Knicks are in a position I can't ever recall them being in throughout my life - all in. And going for it!
I have no idea what those picks will turn into. Regardless, the chances of them surpassing the ceiling of Bridges is meager, and I'll take those odds.
STAR CHASING DEVELOPING
Coach Thibideau doesn't get enough credit for the work he has put into developing so much of the talent on this roster. Again, look at what he's done with Julius Randle. Look at how he's supported Jalen Brunson. Mitchell Robinson. Isiah Hartenstein. Donte DiVincenzo. And on, and on. So many current and former Knicks have had career years under Thibs during this stretch.
I have strong faith that will translate to Bridges. He's already super talented. Is there another level for Bridges to jump to?
I will say this, whenever I read or hear so many of these "experts and personalities" echo the "NY needs a star" tired trope - who is that star? Who is the guy that supposedly is available, young enough, and talented enough to come and be "the guy?". It's such a lazy narrative.
Give me culture over "star hunting". I believe Alan Hahn coined the phrase, Bridges is the final "infinity stone".
It's a nice description and analogy. The Knicks are choosing culture (and friendship!) over "stars".
ROSE FROM THE CONCRETE
What Leon Rose has done with this Franchise is remarkable.
It's rarely said (and unbelievable, considering the past), but the Knicks are the most well-run team in New York City.
Again, what he took over, and where this organization is just four years later - unbelievable. Remarkable.
Oh by the way! I couldn't care less if he does interviews with the media (which he doesn't, and hasn't since taking over the Knicks).
WINGIN' IT
I am incredibly excited for the upcoming Knicks season - especially after the tease that was that crazy January run where the Knicks were at full strength and looked unbeatable. I still hold on to that.
Add Mikal Bridges, and now this team gets scary.
Julius will likely take another step. So will Brunson. Josh Hart can (finally) get a breather. But, what I'm insanely intrigued by is having two of the most intimidating wings on the defensive end in Mikal Bridges and OG Anunoby, who by the way received the richest contract in Knicks history. That's so crazy to wrap your mind around.
Noentheless, those two freakish wings on this squad is going to be super fun.
If Robinson can stay healthy - Thibs will be equipped with the pieces to play EXACTLY how he LOVES to. The Knick's defense can really end up being special in 24-25. And so could their three-point efficiency, with Randle once again working as the focal point around the key.
The Knicks style of play will be very intriguing.
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Overall, I'm for this. I'm excited. Welcome to the Knicks, Mikal.
Ready to ride with this new core.