Nuggets value Michael Porter Jr.; trade unlikely this offseason

YouTube

The Denver Nuggets may consider trade possibilities involving forward Michael Porter Jr. during the upcoming offseason, but according to Bennett Durando of The Denver Post, the most probable outcome is that Porter remains with the team for at least one more year.

Although Porter, 26, has often been at the center of trade speculation, Durando argues that his value to the Nuggets likely exceeds what they could receive in return from other teams.

Team president Josh Kroenke has publicly expressed his desire to maintain the current core group, emphasizing internal growth as the team’s primary focus.

“I think a lot of our answers are internal right now,” Kroenke recently stated – a comment that signals the front office’s preference to stay the course rather than shake up the roster.

As a result, fans shouldn’t expect Porter or any major contributors to be moved this offseason unless Denver is presented with a particularly compelling trade offer.

Persistent injury concerns marked Porter’s earlier years in the league, but he has since developed into one of the team’s most durable and consistent performers.

Over the last two seasons, he’s played in 81 and 77 games, respectively, showing improved reliability.

During the 2024–25 campaign, he posted averages of 18.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game, while shooting an efficient .504 from the field, .395 from three-point range, and .768 from the free-throw line.

His ability to stretch the floor complements Denver’s core trio of Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray, and Aaron Gordon, providing valuable spacing and offensive firepower.

Looking ahead, Durando points out that Denver’s financial situation will become more complicated by the 2026–27 season.

Aaron Gordon is set to receive a $9 million raise, and Christian Braun will likely be due for a new, potentially more lucrative contract.

By that point, Porter will be on an expiring deal, which could make him a more realistic trade candidate next summer when salary flexibility becomes a greater priority for the franchise.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *