• Mikal Bridges significantly improved his defensive play in the first round against the Pistons, showing more physicality.
• His defense was particularly effective against Cade Cunningham, limiting his effectiveness in key possessions.
• This defensive boost is crucial as the Knicks face the Celtics, a strong offensive team with many three-point shooters.

Mikal Bridges' defensive performance has emerged as a key factor in the New York Knicks' playoff run. After a regular season where his defense was perceived as inconsistent, Bridges elevated his game against the Detroit Pistons, displaying a newfound physicality and effectiveness. This defensive surge is especially timely as the Knicks prepare to face the Boston Celtics in the next round, a team known for its high-powered offense and reliance on three-point shooting. Bridges' ability to contain the Celtics' perimeter threats will be crucial to the Knicks' success.

• What: Mikal Bridges has improved his defensive performance in the playoffs, particularly his physicality and effectiveness against key offensive players. He played excellent defense against Cade Cunningham in the first round.
• Who: Mikal Bridges, New York Knicks, Detroit Pistons, Cade Cunningham, Boston Celtics, OG Anunoby, Jalen Brunson, Cameron Payne, Karl-Anthony Towns, Tobias Harris, Jalen Duren, Ausar Thompson, Dennis Schröder, Josh Hart, Tim Hardaway Jr.
• When: NBA Playoffs, May 3, 2025, Game 6 of the first round against the Detroit Pistons, upcoming second-round series against the Boston Celtics.
• Where: Detroit (Game 6), upcoming games in Boston.

Mikal Bridges' defensive improvement is a significant development for the Knicks as they progress further into the playoffs. His increased physicality and ability to contain key offensive players like Cade Cunningham demonstrate his potential to be a crucial asset against high-scoring teams like the Boston Celtics. The Knicks' success in the upcoming series will heavily depend on Bridges' ability to limit the Celtics' perimeter threats and disrupt their offensive flow. The article also subtly points out that the Knicks lost all 4 regular season games against Boston, so they need to figure out how to stop them.

I don’t know if people thought I stopped playing (defense). I know I struggled a little bit this year, but (I’m) just getting comfortable.

My coaches (have) been on me all year, all playoffs to rebound. So just trying to do my best.

Staying skinny on those screens? I mean, he is a toothpick.

Just trying to not get screened. I’m just trying to keep contact.

Mikal Bridges' improved defensive performance provides a significant boost to the New York Knicks as they advance in the playoffs. His increased physicality and effectiveness in containing key offensive players like Cade Cunningham demonstrate his potential to be a crucial asset against high-scoring teams like the Boston Celtics. While the Knicks face a tough challenge against the Celtics' potent offense, Bridges' defensive contributions will be a key factor in determining their success. Whether he can keep up this level of play remains to be seen.