SUMMARY
- Mikal Bridges was traded by the Nets for multiple first-round picks, a pick swap, a second-round pick, and Bojan Bogdanovic.
- The Knicks intend on re-signing OG Anunoby via free agency.
Mikal Bridges has been linked to the New York Knicks for a while now. Over the last few seasons, the former Villanova Nation Champion has emerged as a major threat doing wondrous things as a stretch four on the Brooklyn Nets. Bridges has been a key trade asset that the Nets had in their pockets for over a season.
BREAKING: The Brooklyn Nets have agreed in principle on a trade to send F Mikal Bridges to the New York Knicks for Bojan Bogdanovic, four unprotected first-round picks, a protected first-round pick via Bucks, an unprotected pick swap and a second-rounder, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/TEGsIpoa3b
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 26, 2024
Desperate to make upgrades to the roster or set up a future in rewiring the entire lineup, the Nets traded Bridges to the Knicks, who in return offered four unprotected first-round picks, a protected first-round pick via Milwaukee, an unprotected pick swap, a second-round pick, and veteran forward Bojan Bogdanovic.
Fans react to the Knicks’ insane offer to land Mikal Bridges
The last time Mikal Bridges competed alongside the core trio of the Knicks team, Villanova won two NCAA titles. Bridges was just as big of a threat as he was while he competed with Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, and Donte DiVincenzo. Let’s not forget to mention what the Knicks were also able to achieve this post-season despite running low on talent due to injuries.
Hello 911 I’d like to report a robbery
— Marques Brownlee (@MKBHD) June 26, 2024
FIVE firsts is wild ngl
— el (@eleesalw) June 26, 2024
However, fans were shocked by what the Knicks offered for Bridges. One fan reacted by saying, “Hello 911 I’d like to report a robbery.” Another fan added, “FIVE firsts is wild ngl.” But Bridges and the Knicks are a great concoction solely because he brings a good amount of playoff experience as well. Bridges made it to the NBA Finals with the Phoenix Suns in 2022. So, it’ll be incredible to see what the Knicks do with a fully healthy roster and the former Villanova teammates.
The Knicks still seek to re-sign OG Anunoby
Right now, OG Anunoby is on the brink of leaving New York during free agency after declining a $19.9 million player option. The Knicks achieved a 20-3 record with Anunoby in the lineup and before injuries came into play. Anunoby was also their biggest defense piece during the playoffs. He averaged 14.1 points, 4.4 rebounds, 1.7 steals, and a block per game with the Knicks.
Told that Knicks’ trade for Mikal Bridges does not change their hope that they can re-sign free agent OG Anunoby. That remains a priority for the club.
— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) June 26, 2024
NYK seeks to re-sign Anunoby and star him alongside Mikal Bridges, who is also a top-tier defender. Bridges finished second in the DPOY race during the 2021-22 season and emerged as a key role player on the Suns team that season. And the Knicks will certainly become dangerous once Julius Randle returns to All-Star form.