Mikal Bridges finds solace in front of a television screen: a game controller gripped by his gangly fingers, a headset sitting on his waves and his best friend in the NBA in his ear. For months, Bridges and Knicks teammate Cam Payne had been playing the recently resurrected College Football 25.

Jalen Brunson led the way for the Knicks once again, ending with 39 points, 12 assists and five rebounds while shooting 14-for-25 from the field. Knicks forward Mikal Bridges also had a great game, finishing with 23 points, seven rebounds, three assists and four steals in the win.

Mikal Bridges has not had the dream first season with the New York Knicks. He has faced endless criticism for his inconsistency and lack of aggression, and that criticism is largely attached to the price tag of five first-round picks to acquire Bridges in the summer.