Denver Nuggets Stand Firm: No Michael Porter Jr. Trade on the Horizon
As the trade frenzy heats up in the NBA, the Denver Nuggets are firmly putting their foot down when it comes to the future of Michael Porter Jr. With the trade deadline looming on Thursday night, speculation has run rampant. However, head coach Michael Malone made it clear that MPJ is not going anywhere.
Malone Dismisses Trade Rumors
“We’re not trading Michael Porter Jr.” – Michael Malone
A Key Piece in Denver’s Quest
Throughout the first half of the regular season, the Nuggets have often looked like a team just one piece away from a championship run. Naturally, rumors swirled around star forward Michael Porter Jr., who seemed to be the ideal trade bait given his talent and contract situation. With Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon off the trade table following their extensions, Porter has become the centerpiece of any potential deal.
Clear Message from the Coach
“We’re not discussing anything with anyone, because we’re not trading Michael Porter. If there’s something brewing, I’m sure Calvin Booth [the Nuggets’ general manager] will talk to me, and we’ll communicate with the players involved. But Michael is a crucial part of our team; he helped us win a title,” Malone stated confidently.
Stable Ground in Denver
In contrast to some teams around the league experiencing front office turmoil, the Nuggets seem to be on solid ground regarding their star forward. Malone’s steadfast approach sends a clear message: MPJ is not on the market.
Recent Performance Shows His Impact
Just recently, Porter delivered a standout performance against the Pelicans, scoring 36 points, and is averaging 18.3 points and 6.4 rebounds this season while shooting over 51% from the floor, including an impressive 41% from beyond the arc. It’s no surprise that Denver values him highly.
A Long-Term Commitment
For the record, MPJ is in the third year of a whopping $180 million, five-year contract, underscoring the Nuggets’ commitment to their young star. The future seems bright with Porter, and the Nuggets are ready to harness his skills for another championship chase.
Source: ESPN