Former Suns Forward Projected to Make All-NBA Team

PHOENIX -- Former Phoenix Suns forward Mikal Bridges elevated his game to entire new levels once he landed with the Brooklyn Nets last season.

Bridges has been heralded for his long streak of games played along with his defensive acumen and ability to hit shots beyond the perimeter.

He established himself as a fan-favorite in Phoenix but never was recognized on a national level as an All-NBA player despite finishing as a runner-up for the NBA's Defensive Player of the Year.

Is this the year Bridges cracks the list? Bleacher Report believes so.

"I mean, we all saw what happened once Bridges was sent to Brooklyn at last season's trade deadline, right?" said Zach Buckley.

"Previously a high-end role player for the Phoenix Suns, Bridges looked like nothing less than a franchise talent for the Nets. In 27 games after the trade, he averaged 26.1 points on 47.5/37.6/89.4 shooting, plus 4.5 rebounds and 2.7 assists. Add his always elite defense to the mix, and well, it sure felt like we were all witnessing the ascension of a star.

"As New York Knicks swingman Josh Hart posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, back in April, "With this version of Mikal, he might be the best two-way player in the league."

"With no obvious co-star on the roster, Bridges might be served buffet-style with all the touches he can handle. He'll also play under the New York City spotlight, which won't hurt his exposure. Anything less than an All-Star selection would be a disappointment."

Bridges was part of the massive deal that netted Kevin Durant in the Valley. After landing in Brooklyn with Cam Johnson, Bridges displayed the ability to take his game to entire new levels.