Knicks’ Jalen Brunson reveals what makes Mikal Bridges special

The New York Knicks are one victory away from punching their ticket to another Eastern Conference Finals appearance. After Friday’s commanding 108-94 Game 3 win over the Philadelphia 76ers, Jalen Brunson made it clear that the team’s postseason success goes far beyond talent alone. Following the road victory in Philadelphia, Brunson opened up about what truly separates longtime teammate Mikal Bridges from other players.

As the “Nova Knicks” continue rolling through the 2026 NBA Playoffs, Bridges once again delivered a crucial two-way performance. He finished with 23 points while helping suffocate the Sixers on the perimeter. According to Brunson, though, the foundation of Bridges’ growth traces back to a trait that has never changed since their Villanova days.

“The best part that I’ve seen about Mikal, from the first time I met him to now, [is] his work ethic,” Brunson told reporters. He later added, “His approach to the game and everything, and how he’s grown as a worker and professiona… it’s a testament to who he is.”