Mikal Bridges appeared in the New York Knicks' final game of the regular season against the Brooklyn Nets. Although his appearance was brief, the forward ensured the continuation of his incredible streak with the 6-second cameo he made.
Shortly after the tip-off, Bridges picked up Nets guard Trendon Watford at halfcourt and committed a quick foul. He checked out of the game shortly after. This ensured that the forward got his name on the scorer's sheet and kept his incredible streak alive.
The Knicks forward has one of the most incredible ongoing streaks in the NBA. His six-second appearance on Sunday marked the continuation of his streak of appearances in games, with the tally rising to 556.
What makes this feat even more incredible is the fact that this streak encapsulates Bridges' entire career. Having never missed a game throughout his seven-year career makes the Knicks forward the prime example of durability and availability in the NBA. This is quite the achievement in the modern era, where several players are known for taking games off in the name of load management.
Mikal Bridges joined the Knicks earlier in the offseason. Having played alongside Josh Hart and Knicks star Jalen Brunson in college, the Villanova trio immediately formed a strong core to kick off the regular season.
Bridges himself has been vital. As one of the most capable two-way threats in the game today, the forward made quite an impact in his first season with the Knicks. He put up an average of 17.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 3.8 assists on 37.5 minutes played per game.
Although his numbers have dropped in comparison to last season, Bridges finds himself in a far more competitive team featuring equally adept and competent players. With Brunson leading the backcourt and the big man Karl-Anthony Towns up front, New York earned their spot in the postseason as the third-seed in the East.
Bridges' early exit may have also been an outcome of his feud with Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau to ensure the health of the team in time for the playoffs. But his absence did not hinder New York's performance for the game.
The Knicks managed to secure a 113-105 against their neighbors. This win also comes at a crucial time as it helps the team snap a three-game losing streak and secure some momentum ahead of their first-round matchup.
The New York Knicks are set to play against the sixth-seeded Detroit Pistons in the first round. Led by a talented young star in Cade Cunningham, the Pistons pose to be a difficult matchup for the Knicks. The availability of New York's players in light of injury concerns will be crucial as well.
The Knicks have struggled against the Pistons this season. With a 1-3 record, New York finds itself in a tough spot heading into the postseason.
However, with postseason experience on their side, the Knicks will hope to leverage whatever they can to gain an upper hand against the "Motor Cade" and the Pistons.
