In recent days before the season started, Mikal Bridges’ updated jersey became a big topic of conversation on the internet.

His sweater was always a bit unique. He lifted the ball above his head, held it there for maybe a split second and then flicked it like Rashard Lewis.

And that apparently worked fine. In 2020-2021, he shot 42.5 percent from deep. His career mark is 37.5 percent. And over the past two seasons, he averaged 19.9 points.

And then for some reason he seemingly exaggerated all of his jersey’s quirks over the summer and came with it to the New York Knicks.

Bridges admitted this adjustment was intentional and it looked like an unmitigated disaster.

But then, in the second half of Tuesday, he just started letting it fly. The moment of contemplation between catching and shooting disappeared. The release suddenly went smoothly again.

He hit two threes and finished the game shooting 7-of-13 from the field. And if the entire preseason wasn’t enough to convince him to simplify things, that second half certainly should have been.

Going back to the old form may be easier said than done. Basketball players can get the yips. But the quick, high release that made him one of the game’s best three-and-D players for the Phoenix Suns is what the Knicks need from him.