The Denver Nuggets are just two years removed from being NBA champions in 2023, but a lot has changed since then. Losing in the Western Conference Semifinals in consecutive years following their title run, the Nuggets were expected to make some changes this offseason.
One big change has already taken place. It was reported by ESPN's Shams Charania on Monday evening that Denver was trading Michael Porter Jr. to the Brooklyn Nets, along with a future pick, in exchange for Cam Johnson.
Just minutes later, it was reported again by Charania that Denver was bringing back 2023 champion Bruce Brown.
Amid these rapid and significant moves, the Nuggets had a post just one-day old begin to resurface on social media. On Sunday, Porter turned 27 years old. The Nuggets had a simple three-word message for his birthday that fans have flooded the replies to in light of this trade.
"Happy Birthday, MPJ!" the team exclaimed.
"damn he got traded the next day," one fan said.
"Traded just now," said another.
"Mf’s will say Happy Birthday then ship you off the next day," one added.
"They traded this man a day after his birthday," one wrote.
"Damn it’s time to delete this still lmao," said another.
"The irony of this post 24 hours later," said one.
Denver Nuggets forward Michael Porter Jr. (1)
Denver Nuggets forward Michael Porter Jr. (1)
Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
Porter's contract is undesirable, as evidenced by Denver needing to attach a pick in order to trade him. The sharpshooting wing is entering the fourth year of his five-year, $179 million contract. That said, he is productive offensively, averaging 16.2 points for his career on an elite 40.6% from 3-point range.