Denver Nuggets: Two targets if Denver trades up in the draft

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ST LOUIS, MO – MARCH 08: Michael Porter Jr #13 of the Missouri Tigers watches the action against the Georgia Bulldogs during the second round of the 2018 SEC Basketball Tournament at Scottrade Center on March 8, 2018 in St Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /

Target #1: Michael Porter Jr.

Missouri SF Michael Porter Jr is one of the most mysterious players in the draft. Entering college, he was considered a potential #1 overall pick. However, injuries derailed his only college season. In his debut, after two minutes, Porter Jr went down with a hip injury and he would miss the remainder of the season, except for the last two games. He has immense potential, and he has remarkable physical attributes.

Porter is 6’10 with a 7’0 wingspan. Those attributes are hard to find, and it makes Porter Jr more special. He has many strengths, including his shooting touch and his rebounding ability. From NBADraft.net:

"Porter connected on 36.1 percent of his 3-point attempts while hoisting 5.4 per 40 minutes … He also shot 84 percent from the foul line on over 10 attempts per 40 minutes … Porter has a very high release point that makes it difficult for defenders to contest … He also has very smooth mechanics and gets excellent rotation on the ball with deep range when his feet are set … He can also make a variety of difficult shots from all over the floor"

A talent like Porter Jr. only comes around every so often. He could go in the top 5, but it’s hard to imagine him slipping past pick #8. If the Nuggets traded up to get him, he could immediately slot into the starting Small Forward position. He would add a whole other element to a dangerous Denver team, and has all the tools to turn into an elite player. His risk is well worth his reward, and Denver could end up with the best player in the draft if Porter puts it all together.