How Bridges Became an Essential NBA Player and His Impact on the League

I remember watching that crucial PBA game last season where Jayson Castro’s lay-up extended TNT’s lead to 89-80 with just 1:47 remaining. It felt like a decisive moment, the kind that separates contenders from champions. But what struck me even more was how Ginebra’s Justin Brownlee responded—first with that dramatic four-point play, then a clutch lay-up cutting the deficit to just three points with only 20 seconds left. It was basketball poetry, a sequence that showcased resilience, skill, and the kind of impact that transcends individual statistics. Watching it unfold, I couldn’t help but draw parallels to the NBA’s own evolution, particularly how players like Mikal Bridges have redefined what it means to be essential in today’s game. Bridges, much like Brownlee in that Philippine Cup showdown, embodies versatility and two-way excellence, traits that have quietly made him one of the league’s most indispensable assets.

When the Phoenix Suns drafted Bridges in 2018, many saw him as a prototypical “3-and-D” wing—a reliable defender who could knock down open threes. But over the years, I’ve watched him blossom into so much more. His defensive prowess is undeniable; he’s averaged around 1.5 steals per game over the past three seasons, often guarding the opposition’s best player without fouling excessively. Yet, it’s his offensive growth that has truly captivated me. In the 2022-23 season, Bridges upped his scoring to roughly 17 points per game while maintaining elite efficiency, shooting close to 47% from the field and 38% from beyond the arc. Those numbers might not leap off the page like a 30-point explosion, but they reflect a player who maximizes every possession. I’ve always believed that impact isn’t just about volume; it’s about timing and adaptability. Bridges excels in both, much like how Brownlee’s four-point play in that PBA game wasn’t just about points—it shifted momentum and injected hope into his team.

What fascinates me most is how Bridges’ style has influenced team-building across the NBA. In an era where positionless basketball dominates, his ability to switch seamlessly between guarding point guards and power forwards makes him a defensive anchor. I’ve spoken with scouts who argue that his wingspan and lateral quickness are among the top 10% in the league, though exact measurements can vary. Offensively, he’s evolved from a spot-up shooter to a secondary playmaker, averaging around 3.5 assists last season—a modest but impactful number for a wing. This versatility reminds me of that TNT-Ginebra clash, where Castro’s lay-up and Brownlee’s heroics highlighted how modern basketball demands multifaceted contributions. Bridges doesn’t just fill a role; he expands it, allowing coaches to experiment with lineups and strategies. From my perspective, that’s why teams now prioritize two-way wings in drafts and trades—they’ve seen the Bridges effect in action.

Of course, no discussion of Bridges’ impact is complete without acknowledging his durability. He’s played in over 95% of possible regular-season games since entering the league, a testament to his conditioning and low-maintenance playing style. In my years covering the NBA, I’ve noticed that availability often separates good players from great ones. Bridges’ consistency allows him to build chemistry and trust with teammates, much like how Brownlee’s reliability made him the go-to option in Ginebra’s final push. Statistically, Bridges’ on-off numbers are staggering—teams he’s on have consistently posted net ratings improvements of around +6 to +8 when he’s on the floor. While some critics might point to his lack of All-Star appearances as a weakness, I see it as a reflection of how underrated two-way players can be. In my view, his impact is akin to a foundation stone: not always flashy, but essential for stability.

Looking ahead, I’m convinced Bridges’ legacy will extend beyond his individual accolades. His playing style has already inspired a generation of young athletes to prioritize defense and efficiency over highlight-reel plays. In the 2023 playoffs, for instance, his lockdown defense on opposing stars directly contributed to at least two series-altering victories, though exact win-share data can be debated. As the NBA continues to globalize, with influences from leagues like the PBA, players like Bridges serve as bridges themselves—connecting different basketball philosophies into a cohesive, modern approach. Reflecting on that TNT-Ginebra game, where every possession mattered, I’m reminded that basketball, at its core, is about adaptability and heart. Bridges embodies that, and his impact on the league is a testament to how the game’s unsung heroes often shape its future most profoundly.