Mikal Bridges Boosts Knicks Playoff Chances with 56% Shooting

Mikal Bridges delivered a 55.9% field-goal clip in the 2025-26 playoffs, the highest among guards, sparking hopes that his postseason surge can translate into a full-season upgrade for the New York Knicks.

How did Bridges perform in the 2025-26 postseason?

Bridges appeared in every playoff game, logging 82 regular-season minutes and maintaining a 37.5% three-point mark. His shooting efficiency topped the guard group, a stark contrast to his 14.4 points per game average during the regular season, the lowest since his sophomore year. The guard’s reliability in high-stakes moments helped the Knicks stay competitive against elite opponents.

Why does his regular-season production matter?

The Knicks entered the 2025-26 campaign with Bridges averaging 3.7 rebounds and 3.7 assists, numbers that suggest a well-rounded contributor but not a game-changer. Critics point to his dip in scoring as a red flag, especially when the team relied on Jalen Brunson’s clutch output. If Bridges can lift his regular-season scoring to the levels he posted with the Brooklyn Nets, New York’s rotation gains a genuine two-way threat.

What does this mean for the Knicks’ 2026-27 outlook?

Coach Tom Thibodeau will likely lean on Bridges’ defensive versatility while demanding a higher offensive ceiling. The guard’s ability to guard multiple positions and stretch the floor aligns with the Knicks’ need for spacing around Karl-Anthony Towns. A bounce-back to a 20-point average could push the Knicks into the Eastern Conference’s top tier, challenging the Boston Celtics and Miami Heat for playoff seeding.

How can Bridges sustain his playoff form?

Staying healthy through the 82-game grind is the first hurdle; Bridges logged every regular-season contest, showing durability. Next, refining his shot selection to maintain a 50%+ field-goal rate over a larger sample will be essential. Pairing with veteran playmaker Jalen Brunson and leveraging the inside presence of Towns could create the spacing needed for Bridges to thrive.

What are the next steps for New York?

The Knicks have already secured a free-agent extension for Bridges, signaling confidence in his upside. Off-season work will focus on conditioning and shooting drills aimed at replicating his postseason efficiency. If the guard can blend his defensive grit with a steadier scoring output, New York could solidify its claim as a contender heading into the 2026-27 season.