Karl-Anthony Towns Stands Up for Criticized Knicks Teammate

Statistically speaking, Mikal Bridges has delivered what the New York Knicks likely expected when they traded for him. He averaged 17.6 points per game this season, shooting an efficient 50.0% from the field and 35.4% from beyond the arc. However, it’s the inconsistency in his shooting and underwhelming defense that has frustrated some fans, especially when considering the hefty price the Knicks paid—five first-round picks.

Bridges didn’t help his case early in the playoffs either, struggling in the first five games of the Knicks’ series against the Detroit Pistons. During that stretch, he shot just 42.6% overall and 33.3% from three. But in the pivotal Game 6, Bridges bounced back impressively, scoring 25 points on 11-of-16 shooting, helping the Knicks close out the series.

After the game, Karl-Anthony Towns came to his teammate’s defense. When asked about the pressure Bridges faces, particularly with the trade price tag hovering over him, Towns emphasized the unique intensity of playing in New York. “Picks, whatever—you’re playing for the New York Knicks,” he said. “That brings a different kind of pressure, but Mikal has done everything right.”

Towns praised Bridges’ work ethic and the team’s effort to support one another through the season’s ups and downs. “He’s been in the gym, we’ve all seen it. We believe in his talent, skill set, and mindset.”

With the Knicks moving on to face the defending champion Boston Celtics starting Monday in Boston, the road ahead only gets tougher.