NY Knicks Acquire Mikal Bridges from Brooklyn Nets: Reunited with Former Teammates, Add Depth to Roster

The New York Knicks have acquired Mikal Bridges from the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for a package that includes Bojan Bogdanovic, four unprotected first-round picks, a first-round pick via the Milwaukee Bucks, an unprotected pick swap, and a second-round pick. This reported trade was disclosed by ESPN on Tuesday.

Bridges, who was the No. 10 overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft, will now be reunited with his former Villanova teammates Josh Hart, Jalen Brunson, and Donte DiVincenzo. Last season, Bridges averaged 19.6 points, 4.5 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and a steal per game in 82 games with the Nets.

Joining the Knicks’ forward lineup that previously featured OG Anunoby, Bridges will bring added depth to the team. It was reported that Anunoby has opted out of his contract but is expected to re-sign with the Knicks. This move will give New York two All-Star quality wings.

The Nets initially acquired Bridges in February 2023 as part of a trade package that included sending Kevin Durant to the Phoenix Suns. Meanwhile, the Knicks traded for Bogdanovic during last season’s trade deadline. However, Bogdanovic’s season was cut short due to a foot injury that required season-ending surgery.

The Knicks had a successful 2023-24 season finishing with a record of 50-32 and reaching the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since 2000. With Bridges joining their roster and Anunoby returning to action, they are well positioned to be strong contenders in next season’s NBA Playoffs.