The Golden State Warriors appear to be defining their priorities for the trade window, with Michael Porter Jr. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/warriors-reportedly-face-defining-trade-window-with-a-top-target-in-focus-and-jonathan-kuminga-potentially-on-the-move">emerging as their top target and Jonathan Kuminga viewed as a possible piece in that deal</a>. However, those plans could shift after a Western Conference team showed concrete interest in the young forward, potentially complicating Golden State’s strategy for the current NBA season.



According to Jake Fischer, the Los Angeles Lakers are a team to monitor in the Kuminga market. Fischer reported that the purple and gold are prioritizing the addition of a true 3-and-D wing with size, someone who can defend on the perimeter and contribute as a shooter. Sources indicated that the Lakers previously contacted Golden State about <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jonathan-kuminga">Kuminga</a> during the sides’ restricted free agency standoff in the summer and have continued to track his situation while surveying a thin wing market.



Kuminga would represent a clear upgrade on the wings for the Lakers, but significant obstacles remain. Los Angeles lacks surplus first-round picks and does not have many attractive assets that would appeal to other franchises. That reality makes a major deadline move difficult and could also remove Kuminga from the Warriors’ preferred trade package for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michael-porter-jr">Porter Jr</a>., which remains central to their plans.



Realistically, the most likely outcome for the Lakers at the deadline is moving one or two expiring contracts while preserving future cap flexibility. Their objective mirrors Golden State’s mindset around Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler, reinforcing the core built around LeBron James and Luka Doncic rather than making an all-in move that compromises the future.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" data-id="528612" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/17080225/LeBron-James-and-Luka-Doncic-on-the-court-1920x1080.webp" alt="LeBron James and Luka Doncic on the court" class="wp-image-528612"></figure><figcaption>LeBron James #23 and Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers react.</figcaption></figure>
</figure>



<h2>Kuminga’s numbers</h2>



Kuminga started the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> season on a positive note despite the offseason drama surrounding his contract situation, but his production has dipped as the schedule progressed. He has appeared in 18 games, including 12 starts, averaging 11.8 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.6 assists while shooting 43.1 percent from the field.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nba/wizards-trae-young-gets-real-about-his-role-as-a-mentor-to-younger-players-on-his-new-team"></div>

 

 


Over the first five games, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/golden-state-warriors">Golden State</a> went 4 1 while Kuminga averaged 16.2 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game. His decision-making, defensive impact, rebounding effort, and efficiency from beyond the arc were praised, as he shot 43.8 percent from three during that stretch.



As the Warriors’ offense cooled off and they went 2 5 over the following seven games, Kuminga’s perimeter shooting also regressed, as he hit just five of 20 attempts from deep. During that span, head coach Steve Kerr openly referenced spacing concerns and adjusted the starting lineup, placing additional scrutiny on Kuminga’s fit.



<h2>A possible Lakers trade option</h2>



Kuminga profiles as an intriguing option for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Lakers</a> because of how he generates offense. He is not a consistent catch-and-shoot threat, but he excels as a cutter, thrives in transition, and can create unassisted points, particularly with second units.



That skill set addresses a glaring weakness for Los Angeles, who rank last in the NBA in bench points per game at 24.9. While that alone may not justify surrendering one of their limited first-round picks, it could be enough to spark conversations centered around movable pieces such as Rui Hachimura as the deadline approaches.

Jonathan Kuminga draws interest from a Western Conference team amid Warriors’ pursuit of Michael Porter Jr

NBA Rumors: Mavericks’ Anthony Davis could move to the Warriors to be paired with Stephen Curry

NBA Rumors: Warriors reportedly close to completing a trade involving Jonathan Kuminga to bolster Stephen Curry

Jonathan Kuminga draws interest from a Western Conference team amid Warriors’ pursuit of Michael Porter Jr - Bolavip US

miniaturas

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/golden-state-warriors">Golden State Warriors</a> are entering a critical stretch that could ultimately define their season, as the NBA trade deadline approaches on February 5. With the front office actively exploring upgrades, the Warriors reportedly have three targets in mind, with one name clearly sitting at the top of their list. A key detail is that Jonathan Kuminga could be included in a potential deal during the current NBA season.



According to Brett Siegel, the Warriors are expected to move Kuminga before the deadline, with multiple teams already monitoring the situation. Siegel reported that the Golden State is evaluating whether it can land the exact value it wants or secure the wing player it believes fits best alongside Stephen Curry. Michael Porter Jr., Trey Murphy III, and Herb Jones are currently viewed as the Warriors’ top three trade targets.



Among those names, Porter Jr. appears to be the primary focus. Siegel noted that Golden State would consider a package built around Jonathan Kuminga, Moses Moody, Buddy Hield, and a first-round pick. The uncertainty lies in whether that offer would satisfy the Brooklyn Nets and whether Brooklyn are willing to move Porter Jr. at all before the deadline.



For the Warriors, this moment represents an opportunity they have been waiting for, especially after a turbulent offseason and inconsistent performances from Kuminga. Porter Jr. is widely seen as a seamless fit within Steve Kerr’s offensive system, offering elite shooting and spacing <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-rumors-warriors-reportedly-close-to-completing-a-trade-involving-jonathan-kuminga-to-bolster-stephen-curry">that could immediately benefit Curry</a>, Draymond Green, and Jimmy Butler.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" data-id="560499" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/01/11195944/porter-jr-1920x1080.webp" alt="Michael Porter Jr. #17 of the Brooklyn Nets." class="wp-image-560499"></figure><figcaption>Michael Porter Jr. #17 of the Brooklyn Nets.</figcaption></figure>
</figure>



<h2>A potential obstacle in trade negotiations</h2>



One of the main concerns surrounding the negotiations is what the Warriors are willing to include beyond <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jonathan-kuminga">Kuminga</a> and possibly Moody. Given Porter Jr.’s strong season and rising value across the league, Golden State may be underestimating the price required to finalize a deal.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nba/wizards-trae-young-gets-real-about-his-role-as-a-mentor-to-younger-players-on-his-new-team"></div>

 

 


As Siegel previously reported, the Warriors are reluctant to include more than one first-round pick in any offer, despite <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michael-porter-jr">Porter Jr</a>. being their top target. That stance could complicate discussions, particularly with a Nets organization that is focused on rebuilding with young talent and long-term assets.



Adding another layer to the situation, journalist Dalton Johnson reported that the Warriors remain cautious when it comes to using future draft capital. While that approach may seem contradictory, it reflects Golden State’s attempt to balance immediate contention with maintaining flexibility for the future.



Ultimately, the Warriors appear committed to negotiating primarily with active players rather than draft assets, seeking an immediate impact player who can compete alongside Curry, Green, and Butler. At the same time, the front office is trying to preserve enough long-term value to ensure stability beyond the current <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> championship window.

Warriors reportedly face defining trade window with a top target in focus and Jonathan Kuminga potentially on the move

Coaches with the most losses in NBA history: From Lenny Wilkens to Gregg Popovich

Warriors reportedly face defining trade window with a top target in focus and Jonathan Kuminga potentially on the move - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/golden-state-warriors">Golden State Warriors</a> have navigated several trade storylines in recent seasons, and one of the most prominent involves Jonathan Kuminga. At this stage, the Bay Area franchise are exploring ways to extract maximum value from a potential Kuminga deal, with a clear objective of strengthening Stephen Curry for the remainder of the current NBA season and beyond.



According to The Athletic’s John Hollinger, Brooklyn Nets forward Michael Porter Jr. is widely expected to be moved ahead of the Feb. 5 NBA trade deadline. Hollinger reported that a trusted league source described Porter Jr. as “a lock” to be dealt, as Brooklyn looks to capitalize on what has been the best season of his career. With the Nets owing a 2027 pick swap to the Houston Rockets, the organization has little incentive to tank and instead needs long-term cornerstone pieces.



That is where Kuminga enters the conversation. NBC Sports Bay Area insider Dalton Johnson reported that the Nets have already established a significant asking price for Porter Jr. One league source suggested the package could include two first-round picks, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jonathan-kuminga">Jonathan Kuminga</a>, and additional salary fillers to make the trade work under the cap.



From Golden State’s perspective, such a move is at least financially and structurally possible. The Warriors control up to three tradable first-round picks and retain access to future selections in 2026, 2027, and 2028. That flexibility allows them to negotiate aggressively if they believe Porter Jr. is the right fit to complement <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/stephen-curry">Curry</a>, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green in a renewed title push.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" data-id="560499" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/01/11195944/porter-jr-1920x1080.webp" alt="Michael Porter Jr. #17 of the Brooklyn Nets." class="wp-image-560499"></figure><figcaption>Michael Porter Jr. #17 of the Brooklyn Nets.</figcaption></figure>
</figure>



<h2>The rising value of Porter Jr.</h2>



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michael-porter-jr">Porter Jr</a>.’s trade value is arguably at its peak right now. If he maintains his current level of play, interest around the league is expected to remain strong not only at the deadline but also into the offseason, giving the Nets leverage in any negotiations.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nba/nba-rumors-mavericks-anthony-davis-could-move-to-the-warriors-to-be-paired-with-stephen-curry"></div>

 

 


During the season, Porter Jr. appeared in 29 games for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/brooklyn-nets">Brooklyn</a>, averaging just over 33 minutes per contest. He posted career-best numbers across the board with 25.9 points, 7.4 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 1.1 steals per game, while shooting 49 percent from the field, 39.7 percent from three-point range, and 83.3 percent from the free-throw line. His rebounding, playmaking, and shot volume also reached new highs.



Selected 14th overall in the 2018 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> Draft, Porter Jr. previously established himself as one of the league’s elite shooters while playing alongside Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray with the Denver Nuggets. 



He played a key role in Denver’s 2023 NBA championship run, reinforcing why he was once considered the top high school prospect in the country. This season has served as a reminder of that pedigree, and it explains why the Warriors are closely monitoring the situation as they look to maximize Curry’s championship window.

Wizards’ Trae Young gets real about his role as a mentor to younger players on his new team

NBA Rumors: Warriors reportedly close to completing a trade involving Jonathan Kuminga to bolster Stephen Curry - Bolavip US

Warriors reportedly close to trade involving Jonathan Kuminga to bolster Stephen Curry

When discussing the best players in the NBA today, Nikola Jokic is one of the first names that comes to mind. Unlike other stars, Jokic has a reputation for appearing disinterested in the game, seemingly playing more out of obligation than passion. Yet a former teammate with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-nuggets">Denver Nuggets</a> has compared his work ethic and discipline to that of LeBron James.



Michael Porter Jr. recently spoke on the Glory Daze podcast with Johnny Manziel, reflecting on his time with the Nuggets and their playoff matchups against the Lakers. During the conversation, he opened up about what it was like playing alongside Jokic.



“I didn’t really know much about Nikola, honestly. I did not. And he wasn’t the superstar he is now when I first got drafted,” Porter Jr. said, recalling Jokic’s rookie season.



“I really didn’t see it at first,” Porter Jr. added when asked if he noticed <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nikola-jokic">Jokic</a>’s potential right away. “Even when we went into training camp, I remember asking my teammates, ‘Wait, so this dude is really that good?’ Everybody kept telling me he’s that cold, but in training camp, he and Mason Plumlee, our backup center, were kind of going head-to-head.”



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1980" height="1080" data-id="379340" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250823_BUS_477474_michael-porter-jr_54c71a2d.webp&amp;width=1980&amp;height=1080" alt="Michael Porter Jr. #1 of the Denver Nuggets in the third quarter" class="wp-image-379340" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/18192027/michael-porter-jr.jpg 1980w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/18192027/michael-porter-jr-300x164.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/18192027/michael-porter-jr-1024x559.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/18192027/michael-porter-jr-768x419.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/18192027/michael-porter-jr-1536x838.jpg 1536w" sizes="(max-width: 1980px) 100vw, 1980px"></figure><figcaption>Michael Porter Jr. #1 of the Denver Nuggets in the third quarter during their game at Spectrum Center on February 01, 2025 in Charlotte, North Carolina. </figcaption></figure>
</figure>



Despite perceptions that Jokic plays reluctantly, on the court he reveals the opposite. “They were like, ‘No, Mike, wait till the real games come. You’re going to see this dude’s a problem. He could score 50 every single night if he wanted to.’ I didn’t see it at first, but I quickly found out that nah, he is him and he is the best player in the world.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nba/nba-rumors-warriors-reportedly-engaged-in-trade-talks-with-lakers-over-lebron-james-acquisition"></div>

 

 


Porter Jr. also emphasized that Jokic’s approach goes beyond perception, comparing him to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a> in terms of consistency and professionalism. “People think Nikola doesn’t care that much, but he cares so much about basketball and being great, and that’s why he is the player he is. I haven’t seen anyone in my life that consistent.”



“You know, I’ve heard the stories of LeBron and how he maintains his greatness day to day. Nikola is the same way,” Porter Jr. continued. “It doesn’t matter if he goes out the night before. It doesn’t matter. He’s getting his work in, he’s getting his treatment, he’s taking care of himself, and he’s going to be ready to go when the game comes around,” Porter Jr. said, highlighting Jokic’s relentless preparation.



For Nuggets fans and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> observers alike, Porter Jr.’s reflections shed light on why Jokic has become one of the most dominant and disciplined players in the league, quietly matching the standards set by the game’s elite.

Former Nuggets teammate compares Nikola Jokic to LeBron James in terms of discipline

Celtics legend Paul Pierce opens up on LeBron James’ rise during Miami Heat years

UFC legend Daniel Cormier makes bold prediction on LeBron James’ son, Bronny James, NBA career

Former Nuggets teammate compares Nikola Jokic to LeBron James in terms of discipline - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-nuggets">Denver Nuggets</a> bid farewell to the player with the third-best scoring average from last season, but for Michael Porter Jr., a new chapter is opening in his career with the Brooklyn Nets. At least, that’s what he indicated in his reaction after being traded.



“Honestly, I’m not like a super anxious guy or anything like that,” Porter Jr. told Erik Slater of Clutch Points. “So on the plane when I found out, I was kind of just like, ‘Well, I’m traded,’ and took a nap afterwards.”



Porter Jr. spoke about his strong performance last season in Denver, where he averaged around 18 points, and added what he could bring to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/brooklyn-nets">Brooklyn</a>: “I averaged 21 [points] one year. Last year, I was around 18 as the third option. I just feel like I have more in my tank still. I don’t feel like I’ve reached my peak, and I’m excited to grow my game, expand my game, explore my game, and see what I could do.”



<h2>How Michael Porter Jr. Can Boost the Nets</h2>



Michael Porter Jr.’s arrival in Brooklyn is more than necessary following the departure of Cameron Johnson, who contributed 18.8 points per game last season. Porter Jr. is therefore a perfect fit to fill that void.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Michael Porter Jr. breaks his silence on being traded to the Nets: "I&apos;m really excited for this next chapter in Brooklyn. Over in Denver, I feel like my ceiling had plateaued… I want to grow my game. I don&apos;t want to plateau. I want to keep getting better throughout my career." <a href="https://t.co/hyc0Re8wSI">pic.twitter.com/hyc0Re8wSI</a>— Erik Slater (@erikslater_) <a href="https://twitter.com/erikslater_/status/1943133940350407130?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2025</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



Porter Jr.’s consistent performance makes him a relatively valuable player for the Nets. He holds a career average of 16.2 points per game and has maintained above that mark for the past three seasons. His highest single-season average was 19 points per game during the 2020-21 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> season.



<h2>Porter Jr. Willing to Adjust to New York</h2>



The Nets missed the playoffs last season despite having players with relatively good averages. Porter Jr. joins the team aiming to help, but he’ll also need to adjust, as New York isn’t his favorite city.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#20200425#BUS#163122"></div>


“I always said New York was my least favorite NBA city,” Porter Jr. said. “Just because I grew up in the Midwest, where there’s so much space and no traffic. So it’ll be an adjustment. But I think it’ll end up being an amazing place for me.”

After leaving Denver, Michael Porter Jr. reacts to Nets trade and hints at what’s still left in his tank

After leaving Denver, Michael Porter Jr. reacts to Nets trade and hints at what's still left in his tank - Bolavip US

Porter Jr. reacts to Nets trade and hints at what's still left in his tank

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-nuggets">Denver Nuggets</a> 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.”



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1980" height="1080" data-id="379340" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250710_BUS_438083_michael-porter-jr_34885367.webp&amp;width=1980&amp;height=1080" alt="Michael Porter of the Denver Nuggets" class="wp-image-379340" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/18192027/michael-porter-jr.jpg 1980w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/18192027/michael-porter-jr-300x164.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/18192027/michael-porter-jr-1024x559.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/18192027/michael-porter-jr-768x419.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/18192027/michael-porter-jr-1536x838.jpg 1536w" sizes="(max-width: 1980px) 100vw, 1980px"></figure><figcaption>Michael Porter Jr. #1 of the Denver Nuggets in the third quarter during their game at Spectrum Center on February 01, 2025 in Charlotte, North Carolina. </figcaption></figure>
</figure>



Over the past three seasons, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/MICHAEL-PORTER-JR">Porter Jr</a>. 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.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nba/nba-rumors-al-horford-reportedly-weighing-move-that-could-impact-warriors-and-nuggets-interest"></div>

 

 


Statistically, Porter Jr.’s numbers aren’t poor, but his efficiency and reliability significantly dropped when the Nuggets needed him most. His underwhelming <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> 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 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nikola-jokic">Jokic</a>’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.

Former Nikola Jokic teammate on the Denver Nuggets breaks silence after being traded ahead of the upcoming NBA season

NBA Rumors: Nuggets retain potentially key teammate for Nikola Jokic ahead of next season

NBA rumors: Nikola Jokic reportedly informs the Denver Nuggets of major decision regarding his future

Former Nikola Jokic teammate on the Denver Nuggets breaks silence after being traded ahead of the upcoming NBA season - Bolavip US

The moment we’ve been waiting for is finally here. The stage is set for the 2023 NBA Finals, with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-nuggets">Denver Nuggets</a> and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/miami-heat">Miami Heat</a> ready to battle it out for the championship. Apart from the coveted Larry O’Brien Trophy, the other award at stake will be the Bill Russell <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-finals-mvp-complete-list-of-all-most-valuable-players-by-year-20220614-0037.html">NBA Finals Most Valuable Player Award</a>.



For many, it will be a two-man battle. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nikola-jokic">Nikola Jokic</a> and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jimmy-butler">Jimmy Butler</a> are the faces of their respective teams, which is why many believe they will be crucial to determine the winner of the series.



It makes sense, since both of them have played at an incredible level in this playoffs so far. However, in sports there’s always room for surprise, so let’s take a look at other potential candidates to take the limelight in the NBA Finals.



<h2>4. Bam Adebayo</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="572" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20230601_BUS_5490_Bam-Adebayo-1-1024x572.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=572" alt="" class="wp-image-5573" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/06/Bam-Adebayo-1-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/06/Bam-Adebayo-1-300x168.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/06/Bam-Adebayo-1-768x429.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/06/Bam-Adebayo-1.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Megan Briggs/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



While Jimmy Buckets often steals all the headlines, Bam Adebayo does the dirty work to let his teammates have the freedom to shine. The Heat big man plays a pivotal role in both ends of the floor, so he’s definitely a player to watch in this series.



Adebayo, who has been in Miami since the 2017 NBA Draft, is the co-star Butler needed to get here. Ahead of Game 1, the center averages 16.8 PPG, 9.2 RPG and 3.8 APG in this playoffs.



<h2>3. Michael Porter Jr.</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="572" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20230601_BUS_5490_Michael-Porter-Jr-1024x572.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=572" alt="" class="wp-image-5574" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/06/Michael-Porter-Jr-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/06/Michael-Porter-Jr-300x168.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/06/Michael-Porter-Jr-768x429.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/06/Michael-Porter-Jr.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Harry How/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



The Joker is without any doubt the biggest reason why the Nuggets got here. However, this is still a team sport, and it would be unfair to overlook the job done by the rest of his teammates.



Jokic’s supporting cast has also been crucial to help Denver reach the Finals. Michael Porter Jr., for instance, averages 8.0 RBS in this postseason, only behind the Serbian star. He’s also the third Nuggets player with the highest PPG average (14.6).



<h2>2. Caleb Martin</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="572" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20230601_BUS_5490_Caleb-Martin-1024x572.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=572" alt="" class="wp-image-5575" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/06/Caleb-Martin-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/06/Caleb-Martin-300x168.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/06/Caleb-Martin-768x429.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/06/Caleb-Martin.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Megan Briggs/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



If there’s a Heat player who has taken everyone by surprise this year, that’s Caleb Martin. His story is already well known around the league, he went undrafted in 2019 and was later cut by the Hornets before landing in Miami on a two-way contract.



Eventually, Erik Spoelstra proved to know best. Not only did Martin make the roster, but he also became a key contributor in the starting lineup. His performances in the playoffs have been outstanding so far, especially in the Conference Finals. 



<h2>1. Jamal Murray</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="572" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20230601_BUS_5490_Jamal-Murray-1024x572.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=572" alt="" class="wp-image-5576" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/06/Jamal-Murray-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/06/Jamal-Murray-300x168.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/06/Jamal-Murray-768x429.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/06/Jamal-Murray.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



As we’ve said before, to reduce the Nuggets’ chances to Jokic would be unfair to the rest of the team. In this journey, The Joker has had the perfect teammate by his side in the form of Jamal Murray.



Second in PPG (27.7) and APG (6.1) for the Nuggets (only behind the Serbian) in this playoffs, the guard has been playing with a chip on his shoulder lately. So we could definitely have a potential Finals MVP here.

Nuggets or Heat? Jokic or Butler? NBA 2K predicts 2023 champion and Finals MVP winner

NBA Finals: What was the Heat lineup the last time they beat Nuggets in Denver?

Neither Jokic nor Butler: Dark horse candidates to win 2023 NBA Finals MVP - Bolavip US

Neither Jokic nor Butler: Dark horse candidates to win 2023 NBA Finals MVP

Latest news from Michael Porter Jr.. Find out about all the news related to Michael Porter Jr. on bolavip.com/en