Mikal Bridges steps up for shorthanded Knicks to power win over Bucks in potential playoff preview

Knicks Secure Victory Over Bucks Fueled by Bridges’ Performance

MILWAUKEE — Mikal Bridges showcased the dynamic skills that prompted the Knicks to acquire him, delivering a performance that underscored his value. In a pivotal matchup against the Bucks, Bridges emerged as the primary offensive force, particularly crucial with key player Jalen Brunson absent due to an ankle injury.

Bridges Takes Charge Amidst Key Player Absences

With Brunson sidelined, and Karl-Anthony Towns hampered by early foul trouble, Mikal Bridges elevated his game to lead the New York Knicks. Scoring 26 points in total, Bridges exploded for 15 points in a decisive second quarter during Friday night’s contest at Fiserv Forum, leading the Knicks to a 116-107 triumph over the Milwaukee Bucks.

The Knicks seized momentum and maintained their advantage throughout the remainder of the game.

Versatile Bridges Excels as Primary Ball-Handler

Beyond his scoring prowess, Bridges adeptly managed ball-handling responsibilities, stepping up in the absence of injured point guards Brunson, Miles McBride (groin), and Cam Payne (ankle).

Coach Tom Thibodeau’s strategic decision to start Delon Wright, rather than the inexperienced Tyler Kolek, placed ball distribution duties squarely on Bridges’ shoulders. He responded effectively, contributing five assists to the Knicks’ offensive effort.

Wright also made a valuable contribution, adding 12 points in his 30 minutes on the court.

Anunoby’s Second-Half Surge Secures Win

OG Anunoby provided crucial support in the latter half of the game, particularly dominating in the fourth quarter, where he amassed 20 of his 31 total points. However, it was Bridges’ second-quarter ignition that established the Knicks’ lead, a margin they successfully defended.

This victory marked a significant win for the Knicks against a formidable opponent, improving their record to 12-18 against teams with records above .500.

In the absence of Brunson, the Knicks have now achieved a 6-5 record, with Friday’s victory being their first against an above-.500 team during this stretch.

The Bucks were playing without Damian Lillard, sidelined with deep vein thrombosis. Nevertheless, Milwaukee’s roster still boasted considerable talent in Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kyle Kuzma, and Brook Lopez.

Playoff Implications and Regular Season Sweep

This matchup holds potential implications for the playoffs, with the Knicks presently holding the No. 3 seed in the Eastern Conference and the Bucks currently positioned at sixth.

Considering the current injury situations affecting both teams, their lineups are expected to evolve significantly by the postseason. Regardless, the Knicks concluded the regular season series with a 3-0 sweep over the Bucks.

The Bucks’ record stands at 2-3 in games without Lillard, who is indefinitely on medical leave while undergoing treatment with blood thinners. While his return for the postseason remains uncertain, the Knicks can take confidence from their performance in this head-to-head.

Robinson’s Defensive Impact and Team Effort

Antetokounmpo led the Bucks with 27 points, but failed to assert his usual dominant control over the game, largely due to the defensive efforts of Mitchell Robinson. Following a less impactful game against the Clippers, Robinson delivered a strong showing, particularly on defense against Antetokounmpo. Despite scoring only two points, he secured 10 rebounds, four offensively, contributing to the Knicks’ dominance on the offensive glass.

New York outrebounded Milwaukee offensively 14-3, a key factor in their win. Robinson also logged 18 minutes, an increase from his limited 12:47 minutes in the previous game.

Towns contributed 14 points to the Knicks’ scoring effort.

Kolek demonstrated his capabilities in limited playing time, recording five points and five assists.

Josh Hart delivered another all-around stat line, amassing 13 points, 14 rebounds, and eight assists, rounding out a comprehensive team victory for the Knicks.