The Denver Nuggets have not quite played to their full potential to open the season. Recently, rumors about trading Michael Porter Jr. have picked up steam. There was a report surrounding Brandon Ibgram. Another report would send Porter Jr. away for Chicago Bulls star, Zach LaVine. There have been rumors involving the Washington Wizards and Atlanta Hawks as well. Porter Jr. is the common factor throughout the rumors, as he is the only star the Nuggets can trade. The team can’t trade Jamal Murray or Aaron Gordon due to signing them to extensions this offseason. Nikola Jokić is untouchable as he has proven himself one of the best players in the NBA and a franchise cornerstone.
The Denver Nuggets Should Not Trade Michael Porter Jr.
Consistent Production
With the Nuggets’ inconsistent start to the season, having a consistent, reliable starter is important. That is what Porter Jr. has been for the Nuggets this season. Porter Jr. is having the most consistent season of his career. Despite shooting a slightly lower percentage from three this season, his field goal percentage has increased to 51.2%. That is his best shooting percentage since the 2020-21 season. Porter Jr. is still shooting 38.5% from three, an above-average percentage.
Porter Jr. has made great offensive strides this season, which have been noticeable. He is averaging 18.5 points per game, second on the team, on good efficiency. His shots come within the flow of the offense. Playing within the flow of the offense has opened him up for higher percentage looks while opening up the court for his teammates. His playmaking skills have flourished this season as his 2.8 assists per game is nearly double his average from a season ago.
Despite being a great offensive player, Porter Jr. is not an elite defender. Although he isn’t great defensively, he has developed into a player who can hold his own on defense. His frame and shiftiness allow him to defend both forward positions, giving the Nuggets defensive versatility. Michael Malone can play Porter Jr. in several lineups without worrying he will be a defensive liability.
Entering the NBA, Porter Jr. had several question marks regarding his overall health and how that would impact his career. He has triumphed over expectations and has developed into one of the most reliable players for the Nuggets. Since the beginning of last season, he has played in 125 of the Nuggets 126 games, tied with Christian Braun for the most on the team. He has undergone multiple back surgeries and become a consistent, reliable player.
Porter Jr. Fits the Nuggets’ Scheme
The Nuggets run one of the most efficient offenses in the NBA. They run their deadly offense through Jokić while having a quartet of compatible skill sets. Porter Jr.’s skillset fits alongside Jokić perfectly. He is a 6-foot-10 small forward with elite shooting abilities. He can shoot over anyone whenever he wants. Playing alongside two of the best passers in the history of the NBA, Jokić and Russell Westbrook gives him open looks, which has led to his consistent season.
In the 2018 NBA Draft, the Nuggets took a flyer on Porter Jr. despite his injuries. He has been a vital part of the organization since then, playing a major role in the Nuggets NBA championship during the 2022-23 season. Despite having an elite skillset, he hasn’t demanded more touches or groaned about his role. He has played within his role since his arrival in the NBA, taking a back seat to the duo of Murray and Jokić.
Trading for another star player is always a risk in the NBA. It can benefit the team, but other times it can be a disaster. If the Nuggets are to trade Porter Jr. for a star, it requires that player to buy into the system. Two of the rumored players in a potential trade, LaVine and Ingram, have played a combined 14 playoff games. They would be sending a team-first, championship-pedigree player for a player with little playoff experience. With Porter Jr.’s elite fit on the Nuggets, and the Nuggets’ core still intact, it makes little sense for the Nuggets to trade him.
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