When the Denver Nuggets traded Michael Porter Jr to the Brooklyn Nets during a chaotic opening night of free agency, optimism quickly surrounded the former first-round pick’s move. As a key player on the 2023 NBA championship team, now Porter can take charge with a team that lacks star power like Denver.

“I'm really excited for this next chapter in Brooklyn,” Porter expressed. “In Denver, I think my potential had plateaued. … We play differently there, with Joker and Jamal leading the charge.”

Porter starred in every post-season game for the Nuggets, averaging 33.7 minutes per game, yet his offensive role was limited with the focus on Jokic and Murray, along with Russell Westbrook’s impactful presence off the bench.

The Nets recently traded for Porter after acquiring Cameron Johnson, and he is eager to “expand his game” in Brooklyn. Despite thinking he might stay with Denver after discussions with Jonathan Wallace, he found himself surprised by the trade once notified by his agent.

“It was difficult for me to not perform as desired in the playoffs due to my shoulder,” Porter mentioned. “I felt limited, leaving a mark on the Nuggets fans and organization. I tried to contribute despite my injury.”

Projected Nets Starting Lineup for 2025-26:

• PG: Egor Demin
• SG: Cam Thomas
• SF: Ziaire Williams
• PF: Michael Porter Jr.
• C: Nic Claxton

Porter is set to arrive in Brooklyn on Thursday, meeting the team officials and starting this new chapter of his career. Last season, he maintained averages of 18.2 points, 7 rebounds, and 2.1 assists, but struggled in the playoffs due to his shoulder injury.

He joins a team that includes Cam Thomas and Ziaire Williams and is expected to also help with low-post defense alongside Nic Claxton. Brooklyn has yet to re-sign Thomas, but that remains likely.