Key to a Suns Shining:

Mikal Bridges

By: Michael A Chase Jr.

7/7/2021

         The key player who will be a vital factor to the Phoenix Suns winning the NBA Title is not who many may think. It is not Guards Chris Paul and Devin Booker, nor Center Deandre Ayton who all have been pivotal to Phoenix’s run. The player I am referring to is Second Year Forward Mikal Bridges. As this talented wing player’s production both offensively and defensively in this series will be vital throughout. Which is why this piece will look to analyze Bridges NBA Finals Game 1 performance. While depicting what he must bring on both ends of the floor to gives the Suns a major edge in their Finals Matchup with the Milwaukee Bucks.

            First to look back at his Game 1 performance Bridges was solid and complementary to the play of his star teammates. Finishing with 14 points on 5-13 shooting, including 2 of 4 from three. Hit both of his free throws, and collected 1 rebound, 1 assist, and 1 steal. Bridges throughout this season and playoffs has been relied upon as a secondary wing scorer to the Suns offense. He did fulfill his role in the offense as the Suns expect him to in Game with his numbers. This despite shooting only 38.5% from the floor which is under his normally efficiency. Bridges was also a +14, meaning he was constantly apart of positive results when on the floor, just as the rest of Phoenix’s starters were. As the series progresses Bridges must continue to knock down open shots when he is given opportunities, due to the attention Paul and Booker demand. Doing this will give his backcourt more room to work with on the offensive end, as Milwaukee will be hesitant to leave him in rotation. He must also continue as he did in Game one to run the floor and provide options to Phoenix’s guards in transition. Spotting up for open shots or executing well timed cuts to the baskets for dunks and layups. If he does this his offensive impact will be noticed and felt as the series goes on.

            Now what Bridges must do throughout the rest of this series as a defender will be an even bigger factor in the Suns Championship cause. As the 24-year-old Bridges stands at 6’6” 209 lbs. with a 7’2” wingspan. Making him a capable, long, and rangy, defender for Phoenix to utilize. The main player he may end up guarding much of this series is likely Khris Middleton. The Bucks second best player and best wing scorer. Certainly not an easy assignment but based on Bridges recent opponent experience he can handle this challenge. After having to deal with talented wings like Michael Porter Jr., Paul George, and even to a lesser amount Lebron James he held his own. Bridges has shown to be heady, active defender who gets deflections and can create turnovers. His length has allowed him to contest shots effectively. While even blocking several shots showing his athleticism as a defender. Now dealing with Middleton who is another big, lengthy wing scorer Bridges will need to use his length and quickness to hinder him. While Middleton did score 29 points, when Bridges guarded him, he did do a solid job bothering him with his length and quick hands. He must continue to hold his own defensively to help limit Middleton’s offensive impact. If this happens the Suns will gain a decisive advantage in the series.

            Overall, even though he is not the big star or lead scorer for Phoenix’s attack. Bridges impact on both ends will prove to vital as the series goes on. As a key role player highly pivotal to the Suns winning a Championship.