How Bridges Became an Essential NBA Player and His Career Journey

I remember watching that crucial PBA game last season where Jayson Castro’s lay-up extended TNT’s lead to 89-80 with just 1:47 remaining. It felt like one of those classic momentum shifts that define careers—the kind of moment that makes you appreciate how certain players evolve from role players to indispensable assets. That’s exactly what we’ve witnessed with Mikal Bridges in the NBA. His journey from a defensive specialist to an essential two-way force reminds me why I love tracking player development. You see, Bridges didn’t burst onto the scene as a superstar; he carved his path through relentless improvement, much like how Castro’s calculated plays sealed games for TNT.

When Bridges entered the league in 2018, he was primarily known for his defensive prowess. I’ve always believed that defense is an art, and Bridges painted masterpieces from day one. His wingspan, combined with impeccable timing, allowed him to average 1.6 steals per game by his second season. But what struck me most was his adaptability. Remember how Ginebra mounted that late comeback with Brownlee’s four-point play and a lay-up cutting the lead to three with 20 seconds left? That’s where Bridges’ value shines. In high-pressure situations, he doesn’t just hold the fort; he elevates. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve seen him switch onto elite scorers in the clutch, using his 7’1” wingspan to disrupt shots without fouling. It’s a skill that’s often overlooked until you’re in a do-or-die playoff game.

Offensively, Bridges’ growth has been nothing short of remarkable. Early in his career, he was mostly a corner-three threat, hitting around 38% from deep. But over the past two seasons, he’s expanded his arsenal to include off-the-dribble threes and mid-range pull-ups. I recall arguing with fellow analysts who dismissed his scoring potential, insisting he’d cap out as a 12-points-per-game guy. Well, last season, he silenced the doubters by averaging 22.7 points on 47% shooting. What’s fascinating is how he mirrors the patience we saw in that TNT-Ginebra matchup. Castro didn’t force the issue; he waited for openings. Similarly, Bridges reads defenses like a veteran play-caller, exploiting mismatches with a calm that belies his experience.

The trade to the Brooklyn Nets in 2023 was a turning point, and I’ll admit I was skeptical at first. Moving from a structured system in Phoenix to a rebuilding team seemed risky. But Bridges embraced the challenge, and his usage rate jumped from 18.5% to 28.3% overnight. Suddenly, he was the primary option, tasked with creating offense while still guarding the opponent’s best player. It’s a dual role few can handle, yet Bridges made it look effortless. In one game against Boston, he dropped 38 points while holding Jayson Tatum to 8-of-22 shooting. Those numbers aren’t just stats; they’re statements. He’s proving that two-way wings are the NBA’s most valuable currency, and I’d argue he’s now in the same conversation as players like Jimmy Butler and Paul George.

What truly sets Bridges apart, though, is his durability. In an era where load management is rampant, he’s played 392 consecutive games—a streak that speaks volumes about his professionalism. I’ve spoken with trainers who’ve worked with him, and they rave about his obsession with recovery. He’s the type of player who’ll spend extra hours in the ice bath after a back-to-back, knowing that availability is a skill in itself. This reliability reminds me of Castro’s consistency in the PBA; both players deliver night after night, becoming pillars their teams can lean on.

Looking ahead, I’m convinced Bridges’ career trajectory will only steepen. At 27, he’s entering his prime, and with the Nets building around him, he could easily make an All-NBA team within the next two years. Some critics point to his assist numbers—hovering around 3.8 per game—as a weakness, but I see it differently. His playmaking has improved dramatically, and in Brooklyn’s motion offense, he’s learning to leverage his scoring threat to create for others. It’s a subtle evolution, but one that could push him into superstar territory.

Reflecting on that Ginebra-TNT game, where every possession mattered, I’m reminded why players like Bridges are so vital. They’re the glue that holds teams together, the ones who thrive when the clock is ticking down. Bridges’ journey from a 3-and-D prospect to a franchise cornerstone is a testament to hard work and basketball IQ. And as the NBA continues to prioritize versatility, I have no doubt he’ll remain essential—not just for his stats, but for the winning habits he brings every single night.