Michael Porter Jr.
It’s something about being back at the old stomping grounds. Playing in his first game as a visiting player in Denver, Michael Porter Jr. had his best individual performance of the year for the Brooklyn Nets. Pouring in a season-high 38 points, he continued his impressive scoring, and reminded fans why they revered him as they did.
Being part of a championship as a starter, a player is essentially immortalized in the team lore. Porter played through a number of injuries during his seasons in Denver, and hit some incredibly big shots. He’s taken the next step as a player in his new home, and could be getting buckets for a contender if he’s moved at the deadline.
MPJ had a few special words to say after his return. We’ll use the next section to break that down. An elite shooter, he hasn’t had many non-impressive performances this season.
Michael Porter Jr. Speaks On Return to Denver
It was a positive return for Michael Porter Jr. to the place he called home for the first six years of his career. The Brooklyn forward dropped 38 points, and nearly helped the Nets to beating one of the hottest teams in the association.
He received a massive standing ovation, absolutely warranted for what he brought to the table. MPJ seemed to relish in all of it, having himself a memorable performance amidst a nostalgic night.
Speaking on his relationship to his former team and the guys he played with, the veteran forward had the following to say:
“They’ll always be my brothers.” The full post-game presser can be found below.
Winning a title with the team that drafts you will certainly endear the home fans to you. Of course, Porter Jr. was dealing with back issues when he first arrived, but pushed through a number of ailments. In doing so, he had a massive impact on success, and was there for the team’s best campaigns.
Perhaps if the earlier year Nuggets teams had him, they may have won a little more than they did.
One more quote from MPJ, that sums up his feelings on the situation from his presser:
“I don’t want to take for granted winning basketball…I think it was just time for a change of scenery for me. I loved my time here in Denver, but it’s all I knew…”
He was swapped for Cam Johnson in the offseason, and both guys are getting a taste of different hoops this season.
Michael Porter Jr Continuing to Impress
Few could have predicted just how good Michael Porter Jr. was going to be in Brooklyn this year. Not only has he been the team’s leading scorer, but he’s nearly leading them in rebounding, too.
For a jump-shooter to average 26 points a night at a 48% clip is nothing short of incredible. Kevin Durant has made it look easy, but it is absolutely a feat to be proud of .
It would be tough to see Porter traded from the Nets, but if they want more assets, he can absolutely net them a few in a potential deal. Due to be a free agent at the end of next season, he’s set to make $40 million in 2026-27.
As long as he’s a Net, you can count on 25 points every night. And should a deal happen, he may go back to playing a similar role to the one in Denver. Keep your eyes on MPJ. This is a guy absolutely balling out.