Mikal Bridges is The Nets' Secret Weapon in Player Recruitment
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The Brooklyn Nets have made sure to lock down Mikal Bridges to the organization as they see him as a central piece of their long-term plans. He is a productive player on both sides of the floor as he can be a go-to guy on offense and a premier defensive stopper.
Mikal's positive presence in the locker room is universally appreciated, contributing significantly to fostering a positive team culture and making him an appealing player for potential free agents or those exploring trade opportunities.
Dame and Mikal show off some dance moves together pic.twitter.com/kISTg58ynf
— hoops bot (@hoops_bot) April 21, 2023
“I think it’s just being who I am, that’s how culture starts,” Bridges said to Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports. “Bringing in good people. I think there’s nothing else to it. Just bringing energy, being who I am, and just being nice. Basically, be myself, and hopefully, people will follow.”
Mikal is a friendly guy
The NBA is filled with players who are friends with each other and seemingly, Mikal is one of the most popular guys around the league. While he is not throwing recruitment pitches all around the league, his presence alone is helpful to negotiations.
When Damian Lillard requested a trade, the Nets were seen as a viable option to some because he spoke about how he would love to play with Mikal. This is why Bridges' amiable nature is impactful; it genuinely attracts other players, making them desire to play alongside him.
Damian Lillard's response when asked which of the Heat, Knicks, Celtics, or Nets he wouldn't mind being traded to:
— Erik Slater (@erikslater_) June 7, 2023
Miami and Brooklyn.
“Miami is the obvious one. Bam is my dog. Brooklyn is another obvious one because Mikal Bridges is my dog too. Both have capable rosters.” pic.twitter.com/UZEy6cvqIp
“I’m friends with a lot of people. I think friendships help,” Bridges said.
The future is bright for the Nets
With the Villanova alum still under contract for the next three years, encompassing the 2023/24 season, the team has secured him for the foreseeable future. He is anticipated to remain in Brooklyn, likely until he turns 30 when his contract concludes. He has cemented himself as one of the guys the organization trusts alongside his “twin” Cameron Johnson.
Mikal Bridges out here trying to play the day he got traded to Brooklyn 😂
— Tidal League (@TidalLeague) November 13, 2023
“I’m like, ‘Breathe bro, chill. You don’t even know but two of the coaches...’ You know he had that crazy streak going.”
- Cam Johnson
(Via: Run Your Race) @tpinsonn @mikal_bridges pic.twitter.com/We6tavHSj6
Bridges has the potential to influence the recruitment of future players to the Nets, a favorable prospect for the team given his status as a franchise mainstay. The upcoming free agency periods for the Nets are likely to be intriguing, given the forward's positive relationships with players across the league.