Inside The Nets

Coach Kevin Ollie and the Nets organization support Mikal Bridges' desire to play every game

Mikal’s slump is getting linked to his consecutive games streak.

Peter Sunjic

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Mikal Bridges is most known for not missing a game since he joined the NBA. The game against the New Orleans Pelicans was Mikal’s 500th career game, which meant it was the 500th game in a row.

The former Villanova Wildcat’s streak is still active, but he has struggled to score the ball in the past few weeks. Some have pointed out that Mikal’s struggles are connected back to the fatigue he has experienced due to extending this streak. Nets head coach Kevin Ollie supports his player’s goal of breaking the record.

“We’re gonna make the best decision for Mikal and best decision for our organization if something ever arises like that. But now we’re gonna support him, we’re gonna be out there for him, and we want him to continue the streak,” Coach Ollie said before the game against New Orleans.

Mikal might need a rest

Whenever Mikal plays heavy minutes, it’s evident that he’s breathing heavily. That’s not a good sign for Coach Ollie and the Nets because it might imply his fatigue is bad enough to affect Brooklyn’s overall play.

In his 500th NBA game, he played at a decent level, scoring 15 points. However, that’s not what Nets fans are familiar with Mikal. The 6’6” wing can defend at an elite level, but he has also evolved into a solid scorer. However, his minutes combined with no rest games led to gradual fatigue.

Unfortunately, he’s focused on the streak, which showcases his sturdiness and loyalty to the team. He wants to represent Brooklyn, but sometimes, he might need rest to recover from little injuries that can build up.

Mikal wants to keep playing no matter what

Mikal himself does not look at the streak as his primary achievement. He sees it as a bonus because he’s wired to play every game as long as he’s not dealing with an injury. That’s a good attitude to have, which is why the organization believes in Mikal, as his availability and reliability can push a team over the hump.

“It’s a ‘Nova thing where I kinda take with me and never left about never missing a game, and coach (Jay) Wright was big on unless you’re really hurt, you’re playing in the game,” Mikal once said on House of Highlights’ The Reel regarding his streak.

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Peter Sunjic
PETER SUNJIC

Peter's journey with basketball commenced in the first grade, and it has since evolved into an integral part of his life. Standing on the brink of a potential professional playing career, Peter ultimately chose to pursue a degree in Political Science and Journalism in Zagreb, Croatia. Despite this academic pursuit, his deep-rooted love for the game of basketball endured, undiminished. Now, as a writer and editor, Peter finds an avenue to channel his unwavering passion for basketball-related news and analysis. Whether it's deciphering the latest happenings or delving into the lore of old-school basketball, he covers every corner of the NBA world.

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