SAN ANTONIO — Mikal Bridges has emerged as a key figure in the New York Knicks’ first NBA championship in 53 years, overcoming criticism tied to the trade that brought him to the team. The Knicks acquired Bridges from Brooklyn in exchange for five first-round draft picks, a package that raised skepticism because those picks could have been used to select established stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo. However, Bridges’ performance throughout the Finals and postseason has helped to silence doubts about the value of the trade.

Bridges, who won two national championships at Villanova, reunited with former college teammates Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart in New York, forming a cohesive unit praised for its chemistry. Despite initial inconsistency and public scrutiny over his contributions, Bridges delivered crucial performances, particularly in the NBA Finals. In Game 2, he stepped up offensively with 20 points, six rebounds, and six assists when Brunson struggled, helping the Knicks secure a road victory. In the championship-clinching game, Bridges was the team’s second-leading scorer with 14 points, along with four assists and a critical block late in the game.

Earlier in the season, Bridges faced a rough patch highlighted by a scoreless outing against the Atlanta Hawks that led to him being benched. At that time, the Knicks were on the brink of a first-round playoff exit, and fans were vocal about their frustration. Bridges acknowledged the criticism but emphasized his determination to improve, expressing appreciation for the “tough love” from supporters who pushed him to elevate his game.

“F--k ’em ... I’m still here,” Bridges said when asked about the ongoing comparisons to the draft picks given up for him. His response resonated with teammates, including Ariel Hukporti, who celebrated Bridges’ growth and the ultimate payoff of the trade. “Look what we got … We got him out of Brooklyn. Look at him now, you’re a champion,” Hukporti said.

Knicks president Leon Rose’s decision to trade for Bridges was questioned in light of the high number of draft assets surrendered, but the outcome suggests the move yielded a strong fit for the team’s title aspirations. Bridges’ two-way play, willingness to sacrifice personal statistics, and defensive efforts have contributed significantly to New York’s success.

The championship marks a turning point for Bridges, who has silenced many critics and validated the Knicks’ investment in him. As the franchise celebrates ending a half-century title drought, Bridges stands out as a symbol of perseverance and team-first mentality instrumental in bringing the long-awaited championship to New York.