The Denver Nuggets find themselves on the brink of elimination, trailing 3-2 to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference Semifinals. Despite Nikola Jokic's stellar performance, averaging 30.0 PPG, 14.8 RPG, and 5.2 APG, the team has struggled to find consistent support from its supporting cast.
A significant concern has been the underwhelming performance of Michael Porter Jr., who has averaged just 7.2 PPG on 28.6% FG and 25.9% 3-PT FG. This decline in productivity has raised questions about his fit within the team's long-term plans, because the Nuggets need more from their third option, regardless of whether he has a shoulder injury or not.
Compounding the on-court challenges are recent organizational changes. The Nuggets parted ways with head coach Michael Malone and general manager Calvin Booth in April, putting the core in doubt, especially after the loss of key players (including Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Bruce Brown, and Jeff Green) over the last two seasons.
With these developments, the Nuggets may consider exploring trade options involving Porter Jr. to better align the roster around Jokic and reestablish themselves as championship contenders. Let's dive into the five best trade deals the Nuggets can get for their sharpshooter.
A Blockbuster Swap For DeMar DeRozan
DeMar DeRozan Claps Back At Drake After Rapper Says He'd Pull Down His Jersey If The Raptors Retire It
DeMar DeRozan Claps Back At Drake After Rapper Says He'd Pull Down His Jersey If The Raptors Retire It
Credit: Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images
Proposed Trade Details
Denver Nuggets Receive: DeMar DeRozan, 2025 Second-Round Pick (CHI), 2027 Second-Round Pick
Sacramento Kings Receive: Michael Porter Jr.
DeMar DeRozan, at 35, continues to defy age, averaging 22.2 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game on 47.7% shooting for the Sacramento Kings this season. His mid-range mastery and veteran leadership could provide the Nuggets with a reliable scoring option to relieve Jokic a little bit more.
Pairing DeRozan with Nikola Jokic could create a dynamic offensive duo, blending Jokic's playmaking with DeRozan's scoring prowess. For the Kings, acquiring Michael Porter Jr. offers a younger asset with significant upside because their goal will be to trade DeRozan (and possibly Domantas Sabonis) this summer.
Despite recent struggles, Porter's potential as a versatile scorer and rebounder remains evident. This trade could align with Sacramento's long-term vision, focusing on developing a strong offensive core around Keegan Murray.
Bringing Back A Familiar Face In Jerami Grant
Jan 19, 2024; Portland, Oregon, USA; Portland Trail Blazers small forward Jerami Grant (9) shoots the ball past Indiana Pacers small forward Aaron Nesmith (23, right) during the second half at Moda Center.
Jan 19, 2024; Portland, Oregon, USA; Portland Trail Blazers small forward Jerami Grant (9) shoots the ball past Indiana Pacers small forward Aaron Nesmith (23, right) during the second half at Moda Center.
Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-Imagn Images
Proposed Trade Details
Denver Nuggets Receive: Jerami Grant, 2029 First-Round Pick (POR)
Portland Trail Blazers Receive: Michael Porter Jr.
Jerami Grant's return to Denver could bolster the Nuggets' defensive versatility. Though his scoring has dipped to 14.4 points per game on 37.3% shooting, his ability to guard multiple positions remains valuable in the modern game.
Grant's familiarity with Denver's system could facilitate a smoother integration, enhancing the team's defense and athleticism. Remember, Grant posted 12.0 PPG on 38.9% shooting from deep in his season with the Nuggets.
Portland, in turn, gains a younger forward in Porter Jr., who, despite recent inconsistencies, has shown flashes of elite scoring ability. This move could signify the Trail Blazers' commitment to a youth-oriented rebuild, providing Porter Jr. with an environment conducive to growth and development.
A Clever 2-In-1 Move Involving The Miami Heat
Miami Heat forward Andrew Wiggins (22) looks on against the Chicago Bulls during the fourth quarter at Kaseya Center.
Miami Heat forward Andrew Wiggins (22) looks on against the Chicago Bulls during the fourth quarter at Kaseya Center.
Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
Proposed Trade Details
Denver Nuggets Receive: Andrew Wiggins, Jaime Jaquez Jr
Miami Heat Receive: Michael Porter Jr.
Andrew Wiggins brings a blend of athleticism and defensive acumen, averaging 18.0 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.6 assists on 44.8% shooting this season. His experience and versatility could complement Jokic's playmaking, adding depth to Denver's wing rotation which they could desperately use.
Jaime Jaquez Jr., contributing 8.6 points and 4.4 rebounds per game, offers youthful energy and potential off the bench. We still don't know how good Jaquez Jr. can be, but the Nuggets might have to take a risk.
For the Miami Heat, Porter Jr.'s scoring potential aligns with their offensive needs. His ability to stretch the floor could open up driving lanes for their guards, enhancing the team's offense going forward. A new Big Three with Porter Jr., Tyler Herro, and Bam Adebayo would fare much better than they did this season.
Swapping Shooting For Defense And Toughness With Marcus Smart
Mar 13, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Washington Wizards guard Marcus Smart (36) dribbles defended by Detroit Pistons forward Simone Fontecchio (19) in the first half at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
Mar 13, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Washington Wizards guard Marcus Smart (36) dribbles defended by Detroit Pistons forward Simone Fontecchio (19) in the first half at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
Proposed Trade Details
Denver Nuggets Receive: Marcus Smart, Richaun Holmes
Washington Wizards Receive: Michael Porter Jr.
Marcus Smart's defensive prowess and leadership could inject grit into Denver's backcourt. Averaging 9.0 points, 3.2 assists, and 1.1 steals per game, his tenacity on defense is well-documented. Richaun Holmes adds frontcourt depth, contributing 7.4 points and 5.7 rebounds on an impressive 64.7% shooting.
The Wizards, acquiring Porter Jr., gain a forward with scoring upside, potentially revitalizing their offensive schemes. This trade could signify Washington's intent to retool its roster, and they are taking a gamble that Porter Jr. can be a long-term cornerstone alongside Jordan Poole. They aren't the best of leaders, but they certainly have offensive talent.
Last-Ditch Attempt To Improve Athleticism And Defense
Mar 11, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Brooklyn Nets forward Ziaire Williams (8) shoots in the first quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images
Mar 11, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Brooklyn Nets forward Ziaire Williams (8) shoots in the first quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images
Proposed Trade Details
Denver Nuggets Receive: Ziaire Williams, Day'Ron Sharpe, 2026 First-Round Pick
Brooklyn Nets Receive: Michael Porter Jr.
This would be a last-ditch trade to get the Nuggets an improved depth chart. Ziaire Williams, averaging 10.0 points and 4.6 rebounds, offers athleticism and defensive potential on the wing and is only 23 years old.
Day'Ron Sharpe, also 23 years old, contributes 7.9 points and 6.6 rebounds, providing energy and rebounding off the bench. This infusion of youth and athleticism could rejuvenate Denver's rotation, addressing depth concerns for their starting lineup and bench. Sharpe could also act as Jokic's backup because the Nuggets haven't had a reliable option in that sense for a few seasons.
Brooklyn, by acquiring Porter Jr., adds a scoring forward to complement their existing core. His offensive capabilities could enhance the Nets' scoring options, which include Cam Thomas and Cam Johnson. Brooklyn needs to continue adding young talent to one day be competitive, and Porter Jr. is the perfect fit.
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