Can The Nets Land Nuggets Star Forward?

Nuggets Direction Unclear

Before the season ended, the Nuggets fired coach Michael Malone and general manager Calvin Booth. They finished the season with a 50-32 record and lost in Game 7 of the Western Conference Semifinals. Under new coach David Adelman, the team aims to rebuild and improve. Porter Jr. struggled in the postseason, but his regular season averages of 18.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game make him a coveted trade target, fueling speculation about his future.

Michael Porter Jr. To The Nets

Porter Jr., who turns 27 on June 29, could seek a team where he plays a huge role. If he joins the Nets, he could become the face of the franchise. However, with Cam Thomas averaging 24.0 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game, Porter Jr. would likely be the second option if Thomas remains. Despite that, he could serve as a young leader and help inspire the team. His championship experience could motivate the Nets, who are battling for recognition as New York’s top team.

The Nets would have to evaluate Porter Jr.’s injury history before trading for him. As a rookie in 2018-19, he missed the entire season due to a back injury. In 2021-22, he underwent another back surgery after appearing in just nine games. Porter Jr. has had three back surgeries since college, raising concerns for the Nets. The franchise has dealt with similar issues before, as former star Ben Simmons underwent two back surgeries and played only 90 games for the team.

Does Brooklyn Make Sense?

Meanwhile, Claxton, who is 26 years old, was the Nets’ 31st overall pick in the 2019 draft and will be in the second year of his four-year, $97 million contract. Known for his defensive skills and rebounding, he averaged 10.3 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 2.2 assists during the 2024-25 season.

Porter’s future with the Nuggets remains uncertain, but he is in his prime and has plenty to offer another team. The bigger questions are whether the Nets will include Claxton in their rebuild, trade picks for Porter Jr., or let another team make the move.