It was le s than a year ago at training camp when Mikal Bridges declared himself fit and primed for the leadership role with the Nets. Who wouldnt want this? Ozzie Albies Jersey Who wouldnt want this type of pre sure, this type of expectations? Bridges said. If you really love the game and really want to be the best you can be, youd want this where youre the main guy and everythings on your shoulders. What are you going to do? How Im raised and where I came from with the things Ive been through, I feel like Im ready for the moment and always have been. Bridges was wrong. His time at the top of the organizational totem pole, saddled with the requisite pre sures and responsibilities, was brief and disappointing. Not only did his numbers suffer, but his Nets finished a dispiriting 32-50. In retrospect, Bridges acknowledged his leadership shortcomings. It couldve been better, Bridges said on during Summer League this month. But its different. I was close with everybody, we were all pretty close. We just couldnt figure it out. I think that was the toughest situation. You want to lead and help other guys, but sometimes you got to look yourself in the mirror like, What can I do better to help? Thats where I feel I lacked a little bit. Personally, it was tough. Chase Whitley Jersey