“Mikal belongs in the starting lineup,” Brown said after the game. “He’s had highs and lows, but his record as a starter is solid. I won’t make a rash change now, even with ten games in.”
Bridges logged his second consecutive 17‑minute stint, yet his shooting has collapsed early this season. The 30‑year‑old swingman is now hitting just 32.9% overall and 26.5% from three over the first 11 games.
Brown still backs Bridges publicly, but his bench choices hint otherwise, Edwards notes. The forward has seen only fourth‑quarter minutes in six outings, while reserve guards Shamet, Miles McBride and Jordan Clarkson have contributed more impact.
More updates from New York:
- Brown expressed frustration over the team’s free‑throw scarcity on Wednesday, pointing out that star guard Jalen Brunson didn’t draw a single attempt. “I’m surprised,” he remarked. “Brunson played 34 minutes with zero trips to the line – that’s alarming.”
- Even after losing Mitchell Robinson in free agency, the Knicks have improved on the boards, leading the league with 49.4 rebounds per game and ranking second in offensive rebounds at 14.9. Veteran Andre Drummond, signed as Robinson’s replacement, has been pivotal. “Andre’s doing a fantastic job individually,” Brown said. “He’s not Mitch, but he adds a dimension we love – a relentless offensive rebounder now.” For my money, Drummond’s impact outweighs the loss of Robinson.
- Josh Hart returned Wednesday after missing three games with ankle soreness and illness, according to Peter Sblendorio. “Our transition game suffers without him,” Brown noted before tip‑off. “When he’s out, you really feel the gap.” Will his health hold up for the stretch run?