Sizing up the East in terms of contenders (Celtics, Cavs, Knicks), dark horses (Hawks, Bucks, Magic), pretenders (Pacers, 76ers, Heat) and tankers (Nets, Hornets, etc.)
Mikal Bridges deserved his flowers after Christmas. It felt more important than just one game or performance. It represented Bridges’ first Garden moment as a Knick.
The veteran sharpshooter had passed on surgery for the chance of playing again this season, rehabbing vigorously and appearing three times in the G League.
There were already a few low moments for Mikal Bridges in his Knicks career. He could barely hit a 3-pointer in preseason, for instance. His revamped shooting form was awkward, mocked and involved a hitch. Nerves were speculated as the cause. Or worse, the yips.
Mikal Bridges made his 500th consecutive appearance in Sunday’s 100-91 victory over the Magic, a streak that started from his first rookie game with the Suns.