Brooklyn Nets forward Michael Porter Jr. (17).
Brooklyn Nets forward Michael Porter Jr. (17).
Key Points
Porter is currently sidelined with illness; his status and trade prospects are being monitored.
Since joining the Brooklyn Nets in a 2025 trade with the Denver Nuggets, forward Michael Porter Jr. has been the team’s most consistent performer. Porter has stepped into a leading role in Brooklyn and is producing at a career-peak level, averaging 25.8 points, 7.5 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game this season while shooting 49.6% from the field and 41% from deep.
His scoring has lifted Brooklyn’s offense and made him one of the most valuable pieces on a Nets roster still finding its identity. His strong play has also made him a central figure in trade chatter as the NBA’s Feb. 5 deadline approaches.
Among the teams linked to Porter Jr. is the Golden State Warriors, who have discussed the possibility of adding the high-usage forward alongside Stephen Curry to boost scoring and versatility.
Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) and Brooklyn Nets forward Michael Porter Jr. (17). — Source: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
According to The Stein Line’s Jake Fischer, the Warriors, along with the Milwaukee Bucks, Detroit Pistons and Chicago Bulls, are potential suitors for Porter, though exact trade pathways remain complex and may require creative multiteam deals. Golden State’s interest has grown in part because Porter has shown he can score in a variety of ways and fit into motion-style offenses.
Meanwhile, Porter remains with the Nets as he manages a health issue. He was initially listed to play against the Washington Wizards on Friday. But hours before tip-off, the Nets announced he will miss his second straight game due to an illness that has kept him off the court since he played Monday against the Warriors.
Porter was also unavailable in the Nets’ 120–96 loss to the Houston Rockets on Thursday, a game in which Brooklyn started a rotated lineup without him, Terance Mann and Egor Demin.
Porter’s status will be closely monitored in the coming days as the Nets assess his condition and as league observers continue to track trade developments leading up to February.