Mikal Bridges took to Instagram to write an emotional and heartfelt farewell to the Brooklyn Nets’ fanbase. He expressed gratitude to the fans, players, and organization for their support over the past year, especially after his trade from the Suns. He humorously reminded fans that he was traded to the Knicks, not signed as a free agent, perhaps to ease any resentment.
“Where do I even start .. Brooklyn man I appreciate y’all so much .. I will never forget the love and support when I first got traded here .. from never thinking I was gonna get traded from a place I called home for the last 5 years to everybody just embracing me was something I did not expect.”
“You guys showed love from the beginning and honestly helped me expand my game even more. Obviously, last year was tough and I hated that we and myself was letting y’all down .. wish I could’ve been better for y’all because that’s gonna stick with me for the rest of my life but sometimes that’s just how life is.”
“Gotta grow and learn when adversity hits. To my teammates, coaches, and the organization, I think y’all know how much love I have for you guys, and that will never change.”
“Got so many relationships that will never be broken. Yeah, I feel like I chat a lot whenever I get traded but shit man this is just how I really feel and once again I got traded I was not a free agent idk what y’all want me to do. Love is always gonna be there BK.”
Bridges clearly values what the Nets organization and fanbase contributed to his career. He was traded to the Nets as part of the Kevin Durant deal and quickly became a fan favorite, earning the nickname ‘Brooklyn Bridges.’ Although his trade to the Knicks is a disappointment for Nets fans, they can appreciate the significant return they received.
What Does Mikal Bridges Bring To The Table For The Knicks?
Mikal Bridges joining the New York Knicks is a significant move. Bridges has ample experience playing winning basketball with Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, and Donte DiVincenzo, all of whom he played with at Villanova, where they won two NCAA championships in 2016 and 2018.
Bridges was recognized as an excellent defensive player with the Suns, finishing second in the 2022 Defensive Player of the Year voting. His time with the Nets showcased his offensive skills, averaging 21.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 1.0 steals, and 0.4 blocks.
The Knicks will benefit greatly from his production. With Julius Randle healthy and Jalen Brunson continuing to ascend as a superstar, the Knicks will be strong contenders in the Eastern Conference alongside the 76ers and the defending champion Celtics.
