3 Nuggets players who could be sneaky good candidates for Team USA in 2028
By Tyler Key
Michael Porter Jr.
Much like Aaron Gordon, Michael Porter Jr. has already proven that he is willing to be a third or fourth option on a high-level team. Despite having all of the talent and upside in the world, MPJ has proven time and time again that he can find solace in being an overqualified role player, which would be the exact role that he would have with Team USA if selected.
Unlike Gordon, Porter Jr. has one of the most beautiful shots in the NBA and is lethal from three-point range. He has shot 41.0% from beyond the arc in his career, and the closer FIBA line could quite literally make him the best shooter on the team.
With Kevin Durant set to be 39 years old at the next Olympics, MPJ could be a seamless player to transition into KD's role with his similar attributes, overall size, and top one percent shooting ability in the world. Porter Jr. is also only 26 years old right now and could see his game expand some in the upcoming NBA seasons. In 2028, he would be squarely in his prime at age 30 and, barring future injuries has a chance to be playing the best basketball of his career.
MPJ may not be as physically able to do all of the dirty work that Gordon would be able to provide, but size, length, and shooting have always been key factors that have helped Team USA get a leg up on their competition. Porter Jr. has all three of those attributes.
His numerous back surgeries may also catch up to him in his early 30s, but the 2028 Olympics will hopefully be occurring before they ultimately do, providing him with an opportunity to hit some “Yeah Mike!” threes in a United States jersey.