For the first two-and-a-half seasons of his NBA career, Hornets forward Miles Bridges was known mostly for only his freakish athleticism and highlight-reel-generating slams. But ever since he moved into Charlotte’s starting lineup last April, the rest of his game has caught up quickly to all the high-flying theatrics.
Gordon Hayward’s foot injury seven months ago opened a door for Bridges that he sprung through and never looked back. After putting up 20.1 points and 6.7 rebounds over his final 18 games (17 starts) in 2020-21, Bridges has erupted for averages of 25.5 points on 51/36/88% shooting, a scoring average that ranks 10th in the NBA through Friday night’s loss in Miami.