The Denver Nuggets find themselves at a crossroads this NBA offseason after being eliminated from the playoffs once again, despite the brilliance of Nikola Jokic, who turned in another MVP-worthy campaign. It’s clear that the Nuggets can’t afford to let Jokic’s prime go to waste, and there’s a palpable urgency for the organization to make significant changes for the future.
During their playoff series against the Oklahoma City Thunder, one of the notable disappointments was Michael Porter Jr. His performance fell below expectations, as he averaged just 7.4 points per game over the seven-game series, managing only two outings with 10 or more points. That’s a tough look for a player expected to deliver in clutch moments, and it’s a loud signal that it might be time for both Porter Jr. and the Nuggets to hit the refresh button.
The Golden State Warriors have emerged as a potential suitor for Porter Jr., and such a trade could benefit both parties. The Warriors are eager to show their commitment to another championship run while ensuring that Steph Curry has the support he needs—especially after their own playoff disappointment last season, where they fell short against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the second round.
This offseason, the Warriors need to bolster their roster, and bringing in a capable scorer like Porter Jr. could help create a formidable “big three” alongside Curry and Klay Thompson. It becomes especially crucial for the team to secure consistent scoring options, given that injuries can derail even the best-laid plans. Securing a player like Porter Jr., who has the ability to light up the scoreboard, would certainly enhance their offensive capabilities and mitigate risks in the event Curry misses time.
Last season, Porter Jr. posted solid numbers with an average of 18.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game, while knocking down over 39% of his three-point attempts and hitting more than 50% of his shots from the field. With those statistics, he certainly has the potential to be a valuable asset for any team aiming for the playoffs.
Moreover, Porter Jr. and Curry have a history of working out together during the offseason, and Porter Jr. has acknowledged how those sessions have pushed him to elevate his game. That rapport could pay dividends if he joins the Warriors, potentially leading to an even stronger partnership on the court.
As both the Nuggets and Warriors navigate this offseason, the potential trade could serve as a fresh start for Porter Jr. and a strategic move for the Warriors to solidify their championship aspirations for the 2025-26 season. Change is afoot, and as the dust settles from the playoff battles, all eyes will be on how these situations unfold.
