Bridges’ offensive struggles raise questions as Hawks series intensifies

Bridges’ offensive struggles raise questions as Hawks series intensifies originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Once praised as one of the league’s most reliable two-way wings,Mikal Bridges now finds himself in an unfamiliar and uncomfortable position—watching crunch time from the bench for the New York Knicks. Over the last two games of the playoff series against the Atlanta Hawks, he has effectively been sidelined for the final 24 minutes, a clear signal that something isn’t clicking.

The most glaring issue has been his offensive production. Bridges isn’t just missing shots—he’s struggling to find rhythm altogether. His usual efficiency from mid-range and beyond the arc has dipped, and the confidence that once defined his scoring decisions appears shaken. Compounding the problem, his turnovers have crept up, disrupting offensive flow at critical moments. For a player known for steadiness, these mistakes stand out even more.

Defensively, however, Bridges hasn’t been a liability. He continues to bring effort, length, and awareness on that end of the floor. But in a playoff setting, especially against a Hawks team capable of explosive scoring runs, defense alone isn’t enough to justify extended minutes—particularly when offensive possessions are being squandered.

Benching Mikal Bridges?

The question now is whether benching him is the right call or an overreaction. On one hand, shortening his minutes makes sense in a results-driven playoff environment. Coaches often lean on whoever is producing in the moment, and right now, that hasn’t been Bridges. On the other hand, players of his caliber typically work through slumps, and pulling him entirely from late-game situations risks damaging his confidence further.

A more balanced approach may be the answer. Instead of a full benching, selective usage—perhaps shorter bursts or matchups that play to his strengths—could help Bridges regain footing without putting excessive pressure on him. Playoff basketball is as much about adjustments as it is about execution.