Nuggets Make Shocking Trade to Boost Title Hopes

How Much Better are the Nuggets with Cam Johnson

Despite joining the NBA a year later, Johnson is actually older than Porter. Last year, he had a career season, averaging 18.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 3.4 assists on 47.5% shooting from the floor and 39% from behind the arc.

Like MPJ, Johnson is also prone to injuries. He has played 60+ games only two times in his career, in his second and third seasons. Last season he appeared in 57 games, and the year before in 58 games. Porter had a slightly more efficient season last year with averages of 18.2 points, 7 rebounds, and 2.1 assists on 50% shooting from the floor and 39.5% from behind the arc. Yet, he was almost non-existent in the playoffs. MPJ appeared in 77 games during the 2024-25 season and in 81 games the previous season.

What is Denver’s Next Move?

Due to an old trade with the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Denver Nuggets were limited in what they could offer in trades. In 2023, they traded JaMychal Green and a future first to the Thunder for the 30th pick and future picks.

Porter was their best trade chip, and they cashed in to get one of the more coveted players at last year’s deadline. The deal also saves them money because MPJ will make $38 million for the 2025-26 season. Johnson, on the other hand, will make only $21.1 million and then $23 million for the 2026-27 season.

The deal gives the Nuggets more flexibility and breathing room, allowing them to use the mid-level exception. Depending on what they do with their free agents, the Nuggets can get below the luxury tax and offer the full mid-level exception to any free agents. While Johnson and Porter might have averaged similar numbers, the former is cheaper and gives them flexibility for future moves.