Less than six months ago, the Denver Nuggets traded Michael Porter Jr. to the Nets in a deal for Cam Johnson. Here we are a quarter into the 2025-26 season, and MPJ's name has popped up in trade speculation, as he's playing well on a lowly Brooklyn team. It wouldn't be surprising if the Nets capitalized on his performance and flipped him before the Feb. 5 deadline.
Porter is averaging a career-high 25.6 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 3.2 assists in Brooklyn, shooting 49.7% from the field and 39.9% from three. He's taking more shots than he did in Denver, as he's averaging nearly five more field goal attempts per game this season than last as the Nets' main guy. His efficiency hasn't dipped with his increased role.
He has said that he wants to stay in New York City, but the Nets should listen to offers for him. They already received a first-round pick from the Nuggets to take on his contract and could add to their assets with another trade. Everyone knows that Brooklyn isn't trying to win, hence the team's 7-18 record. The main reason they've won "that" much is Porter.
Will Nets trade Michael Porter Jr. before the deadline?
Denver's motivation behind trading Porter was his contract. He's signed through the 2026-27 season, when he will make $40.8 million. He is making $38.3 million this season. If MPJ continues to play like he is (and stays healthy), he will set himself up for another nice payday, which interested teams have to consider.
Brooklyn hasn't made Porter available, but there are still a few weeks left until the deadline. The unofficial start to trade season was on Monday, Dec. 15, when players who signed deals over the summer became eligible to be dealt. Rumors should start to heat up soon around the league.
The majority of teams are waiting to see what happens with Giannis, who is currently out with a calf strain, but could request a trade before the deadline. Until he decides on his future, things could stay relatively quiet, as teams won't want to make a move until they know what Giannis wants. You can't pass up the opportunity to get him if it presents itself.
In case you needed the reminder, Porter is no Giannis. He has evaluated his value in Brooklyn to the point that a few teams should be interested in acquiring his services to help their respective squads make a playoff push. He is a proven champion, after all.