The Knicks traded five first-round selections to the Nets to acquire Mikal Bridges, a move that generated considerable skepticism among fans. For two seasons, he faced questions about whether his play justified the price, though he saw the fans' critical nature as something that motivated him to improve. The Knicks' championship run proved the trade's value, with Bridges playing a major role throughout the postseason. As he enters his third season, the narrative around him should finally shift from questioning the deal to celebrating his role in winning the championship, per New York Post. Bridges has made clear that he appreciates the fans' high expectations and believes their demands push him to improve at the highest level.