Knicks’ Mikal Bridges Knows He Won’t Catch A.C. Green, But Should He Care?
The name A.C. Green might not resonate with today’s average NBA fan, but to those who know the game, he’s legendary for one specific achievement: his iron-man streak of 1,192 consecutive games played. It’s a record that has stood since his retirement in 2001, and while many have tried, no one has come close to touching it—until Mikal Bridges started raising eyebrows.
Now a key player for the New York Knicks, Bridges is becoming the NBA’s modern-day iron man. With an impressive streak of his own, stretching well over 400 consecutive games, Bridges has proven his reliability and durability are second to none. Yet, in a recent interview, he made a startling admission: *he knows he won’t catch A.C. Green*.
Some fans are shocked by this revelation. Bridges, who’s been an absolute rock for the Knicks and previously for the Phoenix Suns, has shown no signs of slowing down, so why wouldn’t he aim for the all-time iron-man record? Is it a case of managing expectations, or could there be deeper reasons at play?
A Different NBA Today
The NBA of 2024 is vastly different from the league in which Green set his record. Back in Green’s day, players were expected to tough it out through injuries, aches, and pains, as long as they could still stand. Today’s NBA, however, is marked by load management, cautious injury protocols, and an emphasis on long-term health. The physical toll the game takes on players has only increased, with faster play, more athleticism, and greater competition night in and night out.
Bridges’ acknowledgment that he won’t catch Green may be a calculated one. With an increasing focus on the longevity of players’ careers—think LeBron James, who’s nearing 40 and still performing at an elite level—it’s possible Bridges realizes that chasing a record like Green’s might not be in his best interest. Burnout and serious injury are real concerns, and they could rob him of future success if not managed properly.
Should Knicks Fans Be Concerned?
Some Knicks fans may take Bridges’ comments as a sign of weakness or lack of ambition. After all, New York is a city that demands its athletes to be driven by excellence and success. But before we jump to conclusions, it’s important to consider the bigger picture.
Bridges’ durability has been a gift to the Knicks, especially in a league where injuries can derail entire seasons. His ability to show up game after game, consistently playing hard, is what made him such a valuable piece in their puzzle. If preserving that consistency means slowing down the chase for an unattainable record, then that’s something fans should support.
A.C. Green’s Record Is Unbreakable in Today’s NBA
Let’s face it—A.C. Green’s streak is likely untouchable, not just for Bridges but for anyone playing in the modern NBA. Green’s streak spanned an era of basketball that simply doesn’t exist anymore. The record is almost superhuman, especially considering that Green didn’t just avoid injury but also survived an era where players fought through concussions, torn ligaments, and sprained ankles to stay on the court. In today’s NBA, with the scrutiny of medical teams, such feats would be borderline impossible.
Even LeBron James, who has been a model of consistency over his 20+ year career, has missed time with injuries and load management. If the king himself can’t come close, what does that say about anyone else’s chances?
The Future for Bridges and the Knicks
Bridges might not be chasing Green’s record, but that doesn’t mean he isn’t chasing greatness. In a Knicks franchise that has been desperate for consistency, he is positioning himself as a leader and a cornerstone for their future. His durability is still a badge of honor, and his decision to prioritize his long-term health only increases his value to the team.
Ultimately, Mikal Bridges’ statement should not be seen as a concession or a lack of ambition. Instead, it reflects the reality of the modern NBA—an era where being available and playing smart is often more valuable than chasing records of the past. Knicks fans should appreciate what they have in Bridges: a player who will keep showing up, night after night, even if it means playing the long game.
The iron-man chase may be over, but Mikal Bridges’ journey toward greatness is just beginning.
