The Denver Nuggets are stuck in the middle of the ultra-competitive Western Conference, and the reality is sinking in: they may need to shake things up. And as NBA insider Marc Stein reports, that shake-up might come via a seismic trade, one that could change the franchise’s trajectory.
Sources confirm the Nuggets are seriously considering moving Michael Porter Jr., the talented but injury-prone wing who has been a key piece in Denver’s rotation.
It’s a move they’ve flirted with before — notably during trade talks for Paul George this past summer. But with the Nuggets currently struggling at 14-11, those discussions are intensifying.
Porter’s trade value is tricky. Despite his skills, his injury history makes any trade a gamble. That’s why the Nuggets are not only exploring the possibility of moving Porter for a singular star like Chicago Bulls guard Zach LaVine — they’re also weighing more creative options that could bring back two solid starting-caliber players.
But is LaVine the right fit? The 6-foot-5 LaVine would certainly benefit from Nikola Jokic’s playmaking, but the Nuggets’ defense could suffer without Porter’s size and versatility.
Let’s break it down further. A LaVine-Porter swap makes sense on the surface. LaVine is an explosive scorer who would complement Denver’s offense, creating more space for Jokic and Aaron Gordon to operate.
But what about defense? Porter, at 6-foot-10, has shown significant growth in his defensive responsibilities this season. Losing him would put more strain on Denver’s defense, especially during the minutes Jokić is off the floor.
So what’s Plan B? The Nuggets could turn to a deal that brings back more than just LaVine. What if they sent Porter to Atlanta to reunite him with former AAU teammate Trae Young?
A hypothetical swap that lands Denver De’Andre Hunter and Bogdan Bogdanovic could fill some of the gaps.
Or, what if Brooklyn would be willing to part with Cam Johnson and Dorian Finney-Smith for Porter? That would help the Nuggets without sacrificing too much size, offering a balance between offense and defense.
Porter’s contract adds another layer to these discussions. He’s locked in for the next few years, but only $12 million of his $40.8 million salary for 2026-27 is guaranteed, making him an attractive piece for NBA teams looking to clear space.
On the flip side, the Nuggets are aware of Porter’s potential, and moving him isn’t a decision they’d take lightly — he’s an organizational favorite, after all, with a connection to team chairman Josh Kroenke.
So, while the LaVine-for-Porter deal makes sense for the Bulls, who are eyeing a top draft pick and could benefit from the cap savings, the Nuggets have more factors to weigh.
There’s the risk of moving Porter’s size, the potential defensive hit, and the fact that Porter has finally begun to show growth in the system.
Denver’s front office is walking a fine line — and the pressure is on to get any trade right.
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I like the idea of Russ and LaVine on each wing of a transition break and Jokic outlet passes. It would really up the tempo. In some areas he’s a better defender than Porter in my opinion. And he can get his own shot better, which they could really use. I’d love to see that trade.
While they’re at it Nugs could use another (real, experienced) point guard. Especially if not getting LaVine.