Michael Porter Jr. is showcasing his best performance since his back injury sidelined him during the 2021-22 season. The Denver Nuggets' forward delivered a season-high 36 points in a triumphant win over the New Orleans Pelicans, marking his resilience and skill on the court. Porter exhibited an impressive shooting display, making 12 of 22 shots from the field and 7 of 12 from beyond the arc.
The 6-foot-10 wing has proven to be an essential player for the Nuggets, with his consistent presence on the court. Remarkably, he played in 81 games last season and has not missed a single game this year. This durability is underscored by his critical role in helping the team secure a championship. Despite being the only player on Denver's roster who could be traded before the February 6 deadline and earns more than $9 million annually, trade rumors have been dismissed by Nuggets coach Michael Malone.
"No because we're not trading Michael Porter," – Michael Malone
Porter, who is in the third year of his five-year maximum rookie contract extension, still has nearly $80 million left on his deal. His potential trade has been a topic of speculation, yet Malone remains firm in his stance that Porter is too valuable to the team's success to consider such a move.
"So I'm not touching base with anybody on that…. And if there's something coming obviously [Nuggets GM Calvin Booth] will talk with me and I'm sure we'll communicate with whatever players. But Michael is a really important piece, he helped us win a championship." – Michael Malone
Porter's journey from an injury-prone start to becoming an "iron man" for Denver speaks volumes about his determination and talent. His ability to play consistently underscores his importance to the Nuggets' roster. General Manager Calvin Booth will maintain open communication with Porter and other players should any trade discussions arise, but Malone's recent comments suggest that Porter's position with the team is secure.
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