Mikal Bridges, now with the New York Knicks, is establishing himself as a top player post a major trade involving five first-round picks. Despite not being an All-Star, he is hailed as possibly the best role player in the NBA, owing to his elite defense and sharpshooting.

As he transitions to the Knicks, Bridges is expected to adjust his offensive game while enhancing his defensive efforts under coach Tom Thibodeau's system, which may bolster the Knicks' standings against the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference.