Former Suns favorite Mikal Bridges gets another Finals shot with Knicks

CLEVELAND — With the New York Knicks heading to the NBA Finals for the first time since 1999, Phoenix Suns fans poured support online for Mikal Bridges, the former Suns standout now starring in New York.

May 25, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; New York Knicks forward Mikal Bridges (25) looks to pass while defended by Cleveland Cavaliers guard James Harden (1) in the second quarter during game four of the Eastern Conference Finals for the 2026 NBA playoffs at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

With New York punching its ticket to the Finals after a 4-0 sweep of the Cleveland Cavaliers, Bridges became the first player from Phoenix’s 2021 Finals team to return to the NBA Finals. Now leading the Knicks through the Eastern Conference playoffs, he has delivered the same durability, defense and timely scoring that made him a fan favorite in the Valley.

Bridges has remained one of the NBA’s iron men, continuing his streak as one of the league’s most dependable two-way players while taking on a larger offensive role.

Jul 8, 2021; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard Pat Connaughton (24) against Phoenix Suns forward Mikal Bridges (25) in game two of the 2021 NBA Finals at Phoenix Suns Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

For Suns fans, Bridges’ return to the Finals carries mixed emotions. He was a core piece of the Suns team that reached the Finals in 2021 alongside Devin Booker and Chris Paul. He helped revive the franchise during one of its most successful eras in decades with his energy, personality and defensive intensity.

It’s because of those traits — and the memories he helped create in the Valley — that many Suns fans have continued to support him from afar.

While seeing a fan favorite come close to a championship feels rewarding for many, it also reflects the reality of sports. Phoenix has remained competitive since 2021, but roster changes and playoff disappointments have kept the Suns from making another deep postseason run.

Now, Bridges has a chance to accomplish what that Suns group couldn’t — win a title.

May 25, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; New York Knicks forward Mikal Bridges (25) shoots while defended by Cleveland Cavaliers guard Max Strus (2) in the second quarter during game four of the eastern conference finals for the 2026 NBA playoffs at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

Even from across the country, many Suns fans will be watching closely to cheer on a familiar face who helped restore winning basketball in the desert.

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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde