Knicks Coach Mike Brown Keeps Mikal Bridges in Starting Lineup Despite Sluggish Start
Bridges is averaging under 15 minutes in seven games, but Brown says the team will stick with its core starters while Landry Shamet provides a strong bench presence.
By Justin Barnes ·
Mikal Bridges is facing a sharp drop in playing time as the New York Knicks begin the 2026-27 season. In the first seven games, Bridges has played 13 and 16 minutes in two outings, a notable decrease from his regular season usage last year. Despite these early struggles, head coach Mike Brown has decided against resting the starting small forward.
The team is currently 4-3, having lost to the Boston Celtics and fallen to other opponents in a mixed start. Bridges has shot 30.8% from the field and 26.9% from three-point range. His performance has raised questions among fans about the team's roster construction, specifically regarding the role of guard Landry Shamet, who has started in place of injured Josh Hart.
Brown addressed the decision to keep Bridges in the starting lineup ahead of the team's match against the Chicago Bulls at Madison Square Garden. He noted that starters receive more patience than bench players during the early part of the season. "Our starters are going to get a lot more rope than the guy's coming off the bench, you know?" Brown said. He emphasized that the team is in a process and should not expect perfection in the first few weeks.
The coaching staff is aware of Bridges' historical tendency to struggle in early seasons before finding his rhythm. Brown pointed to Bridges' speed and defensive contributions as key factors that will remain valuable even during offensive slumps. "He’s just got to keep playing," Brown said. "Everybody goes through those ups and downs throughout the course of the season."
Brown also acknowledged the strong play of Shamet, who has been a reliable option off the bench. The coach stated he intends to play the players who are performing best to secure victories. "Landry, he played well in the last game. As you guys can see I’ll try to go with who I think is playing well," Brown said. This approach prioritizes immediate results over strict adherence to the starting roster.
The next scheduled game is against the Chicago Bulls at Madison Square Garden. Josh Hart is expected to continue resting due to right ankle soreness. Bridges will remain in the starting lineup, with the coaching staff monitoring his shooting and defensive impact closely.
Brown indicated that the team will continue to evaluate the lineup as the season progresses. The focus remains on maintaining the defensive intensity and ball movement that led to the team's recent championship success, even as individual shooting percentages fluctuate.
