As Duren cut-off Brunson’s lane, Bridges created one of his own: His man, Malik Beasley, turned his head towards the paint, and Bridges darted to the top of the key. An escape hatch for Brunson, then trapped in no man’s land.

The New York Knicks bet the farm on Mikal Bridges being the missing piece to their championship hopes. That move looked like a losing proposition throughout the regular season. Bridges’ start to the playoffs hasn’t changed that sentiment.

The New York Knicks had a chance to complete an inspiring comeback over the Detroit Pistons in Game 2 of their first-round playoff series. With just seconds left in the game and New York trailing 97-94, Mikal Bridges got a wide-open look at the top of the key to tie the game, but his jumper came up short.