No one is expecting the Brooklyn Nets to make a playoff push this season. They are currently rebuilding, trying to figure out a path for the future. However, a key piece that can help expedite their rebuild is Michael Porter Jr.
Porter is having a fantastic season, averaging 25.6 points per game, a career and team-high, but he may not be part of the Nets’ plans. Well, at least his role in the Nets’ plans may not be on the roster, but as a tool for the team to continue their rebuild.
Now that trade season has officially begun, rumors around Porter have already been swirling with teams looking to acquire him. One of the most consistent teams mentioned is the Golden State Warriors, who have been linked to Porter.
Well, now, from the Nets’ side of things, they are becoming more open to the idea of moving Porter. Erik Slater of Clutch Points wrote, “Porter Jr. is expected to draw interest on the trade market amid his red-hot start. The Nets are likely to gauge offers for the veteran, whom they acquired alongside an unprotected Nuggets 2032 first-round pick for Cam Johnson.”
What Makes Michael Porter Jr. Perfect For Contending Teams
GettyBrooklyn Nets Michael Porter Jr. with the ball.
Porter is the perfect role player that a hopeful contender could be looking for. He is a proven role player on a championship team, an elite shooter, and a solid rebounder. That checks off the wish list any contending team could be looking for.
To start, Porter helped the Nuggets win an NBA Championship in 2023. While he was a role player, or the third offensive option most nights on that team, it has prepared him to do that again on another team. Porter’s time with the Nets also proves that if you need him to take over a game, it’s very much in his wheelhouse.
When it comes to shooting and rebounding, Porter has always stood out. Even though he is taking nine threes per game on the Nets, making 39.9%, which is unsustainable on a contending team, that is close to his career average of 40.6%. Porter also averages 6.5 rebounds over his seven-year career, averaging 7.3 on the Nets. Both are skills a contending team can rely on when trading for Porter, only making him more valuable.
Why Should the Nets Trade Porter
GettyMichael Porter Jr. with the ball going up for a layup.
Last offseason, Porter was traded from the Denver Nuggets to the Nets in what seemed like a salary-dump move. The Nuggets sent Porter, along with a 2032 first-round pick, to the Nets for Cameron Johnson. Porter is making $38 million this season and $40 million next, according to Spotrac.
On the other hand, Johnson is only making $44 million over this season and the next. After the trade, the Nuggets used the extra cap space to rebuild their depth. Which only made the Porter trade look more like a salary dump.
While Porter and Johnson are in two different situations, based on the stats, one is doing better than the other. Porter is averaging 25.6 points and 7.3 rebounds per game, while Johnson is averaging 11.4 and 3.4.
In theory, the Nets are playing with house money. They traded one of their best assets from last season and, in return, got a player playing well above expectations. Porter’s value is only going up due to his play, meaning the Nets can get a better trade package in return.
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