The Denver Nuggets are sending Michael Porter Jr. to the Brooklyn Nets. What a way to kick off the free agency period in Mile High. With this move being made, what does this mean for the Nuggets? Are they still in the Championship bubble? Was it a good trade for both sides? Let’s dive into it!

Nuggets’ Trade Porter

The Denver Nuggets are trading Michael Porter Jr. (MPJ) and an unprotected first-round pick in 2032 to the Brooklyn Nets for Cam Johnson. This is interesting considering where the Nuggets were just a few years ago. Just three seasons ago, Denver won the NBA Finals with MPJ being a key component. He ended up on the team after being selected with the 14th pick in the 2018 draft.

Who Won the Trade?

With the Nets getting the Nuggets’ 2032 first round unprotected pick on top of the younger player, Brooklyn won the deal. Yes, the draft pick isn’t for another seven years. However, by that time, Denver should be on the decline, as Nikola Jokic will most likely will no longer be on the team.

Regarding how the players fit on both teams, it’s interesting because statistically, they’re essentially the same player. MPJ averaged 18.2 PPG, 2.5 3PG, and shot 39.5% from deep. For Johnson, he averaged 18.8 PPG, on 2.8 3PG and shot 39% from downtown. We should see MPJ’s usage elevate on a rebuilding Nets team, while Johnson should continue to be the three-point marksman he has always been.

Final Thoughts

I like this move for both teams. The Nets continue to acquire future assets and a 27-year-old player who can sell tickets and make this team a fun, fringe play-in contender. As for the Nuggets, adding a player like Johnson should improve their third scoring option. He has been the primary scorer on a bad Nets team. Playing next to Jokic and Jamal Murray, he should get better looks.

Thank you for checking out my instant reaction to the Nuggets trading Michael Porter Jr. to the Brooklyn Nets. Be sure to check out our other amazing content here at New Leaf News! Thank you for including us in your day. I look forward to speaking with you all again soon!