The Denver Nuggets were left wanting more after falling in Game 7 of the Western Conference semifinals to the eventual champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder. Despite a strong NBA postseason run powered by Nikola Jokic, the Nuggets knew they needed to make roster changes this offseason—and they’ve wasted no time doing just that.
Michael Porter Jr., a key contributor during Denver’s 2023 championship campaign, has been traded to the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for Cam Johnson. The move is widely viewed as a cost-cutting decision that also gives the Nuggets more roster flexibility heading into next season.
The trade surprised many around the league, including Porter Jr. himself. But the 27-year-old forward is embracing the opportunity for a fresh start. “I’m really excited for this next chapter out here in Brooklyn,” Porter Jr. said on his YouTube channel in his first public comments since the deal. “Over there in Denver, I felt like my ceiling had kind of plateaued. We just have a way of playing—how Joker plays, how Jamal [Murray] plays—that two-man game is very potent.”
“That’s how we played, and I’m so appreciative of it—we ended up winning a championship,” he added. “But I do feel like my ceiling in Denver plateaued a little bit, and I’m excited for this next chapter in Brooklyn… I’m excited to expand my game and be able to do what I do.”
Over the past three seasons, Porter Jr. averaged 17.1 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 1.6 assists while shooting 49% from the field, 40% from three, and 78% from the line. His size, rebounding ability, and shot-making were assets next to Jokic, but concerns remained about his decision-making, defensive impact, and consistency—particularly during the playoffs.
Statistically, Porter Jr.’s numbers aren’t poor, but his efficiency and reliability significantly dropped when the Nuggets needed him most. His underwhelming NBA postseason performances raised legitimate concerns inside the organization.
Porter Jr. is still owed $79 million over the next two years. By dealing him for Johnson—who is on a more manageable $21 million contract—the Nuggets moved below the second tax apron, giving them access to the $14.1 million non-taxpayer mid-level exception. The trade also generated a $16.8 million trade exception.
This trade, along with other moves Denver has made this summer, could end up maximizing Jokic’s prime. By improving depth and cap flexibility, the Nuggets may reassert themselves as serious contenders for the 2025-26 NBA title—something they believe is within reach with a more balanced roster.