On Sunday, the New York Knicks sealed their place as the third seed in the Eastern Conference with a 113-105 win over the Brooklyn Nets. While the game held playoff implications for the Knicks, much of the postgame chatter centered on a surprising moment that lasted only six seconds.
Mikal Bridges checked into Sunday’s regular-season finale, but not for long. Right after tip-off, Bridges picked up Nets guard Trendon Watford at halfcourt and committed a quick foul. Then, he checked out, never to return to the floor again.
Mikal Bridges started, committed a foul, and checked out after 6 seconds just so he could keep up his streak of games played 😭
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) April 13, 2025
He's currently at 556 👀 pic.twitter.com/zBHSSg1kT9
It was a pure move to keep his incredible “Ironman” streak alive. Bridges extended his streak of consecutive games played to 556 with his brief appearance. It’s the longest active streak in the NBA.
The Knicks forward has been lauded throughout his career for his durability and commitment. Bridges joined the Knicks earlier this offseason and played all 82 games for the team. This season, he averaged 17.6 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game for the Knicks.
Fans React To Mikal Bridges’ Brief Court Appearance For Making A Record
NBA fans didn’t hold back on social media when it came to Mikal Bridges’ brief appearance. Many were unimpressed, expressing disappointment that he stepped on the court only to commit a foul and exit immediately. Several fans argued that Bridges should have logged a few meaningful minutes to validate the continuation of his games-played streak truly.
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“This feels the same as intentionally missing a shot to secure a 10th rebound for a triple double,” one fan wrote.
This feels the same as intentionally missing a shot to secure a 10th rebound for a triple double
— David Kenah (@david_kenah) April 13, 2025
“Why didn’t he play for a bit at least? He’s never been injured, playing 15 mins isn’t some kind of huge risk,” one fan questioned.
Why didn’t he play for a bit atleast
— Layman (@_OnosOnos) April 13, 2025
He’s never been injured, playing 15 mins isn’t some kind of huge risk
“Just shows the streak itself doesn’t mean anything,” one comment read.
Just shows the streak itself doesn’t mean anything
— Robbie Bangers (@RobertSportsBet) April 13, 2025
Another fan added, “But if didn’t actually play the game it shouldn’t count.”
But if didn’t actually play the game it shouldn’t count
— Brick by Brick (@marathonkash) April 13, 2025
Some fans acknowledged the sentiment behind Bridges’ move while also questioning its authenticity.
“Torn on this. Respect the hustle but makes a little bit of a mockery of it at the same time,” wrote another.
torn on this. respect the hustle but makes a little bit of a mockery of it at the same time.
— Corey Dawkins (@cidawkins) April 13, 2025
Despite the controversy, Bridges’ streak remains intact in the record books. The Knicks opted to rest several key players for the game, including Karl-Anthony Towns, Josh Hart, and Jalen Brunson.
In their absence, Landry Shamet and Cameron Payne stepped up. Shamet delivered a standout performance with 29 points, while Payne contributed 21 points and seven rebounds, helping secure the victory.
