New York Knicks: Prospects To Scout For Second Round Of 2017 NBA Draft

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Jan 29, 2017; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Villanova Wildcats guard Mikal Bridges (25) dribbles against the Virginia Cavaliers during the second half at Wells Fargo Center. The Villanova Wildcats won 61-59. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /

Mikal Bridges, Villanova Wildcats

Position: Guard/Forward
Age: 20 (8/30/1986)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’7″, 200 pounds, 7’0.5″
2016-17 Slash Line: .566/.406/.904
2016-17 Season Averages: 29.9 MPG, 10.3 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 2.0 APG, 1.8 SPG, 0.9 BPG, 1.3 3PM

This isn’t the first time that Mikal Bridges has come up as a potential target for the New York Knicks. The defensive stalwart was projected as an option for the Knicks in our early March mock draft, and thus, he’s appearing again.

Bridges has a lot of Lance Thomas in his game, and at a younger and more developable age, he’ll likely appeal to team president Phil Jackson.

Bridges is a ball hawk, but that only scratches the surface of what makes him an intriguing defensive player. He plays for a head coach, Jay Wright, who demands a high level of defensive intensity from all of his players.

Bridges consistently plays his heart out in on-ball situations and creates turnovers by not only playing the passing lanes, but rushing the ball-handler and stripping them of the ball.

In addition to being an outstanding defender, Bridges has become a serviceable offensive player. He’s a willing and capable creator for his teammates, and an improving shooter who can help space the floor when he’s given room.

Bridges would likely begin his career in the NBA D-League with the Westchester Knicks, but he could develop into a quality rotational player.

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