As the NBA trade season heats up, the Denver Nuggets find themselves in the midst of a crucial search for offensive firepower. They are looking left and right to help Nikola Jokic with a pair of supportive hands. The key composition lies around him, but it does not completely depend on him to take care of.
In mid-December, the Nuggets are 14-10 and fifth in the Western Conference. However, with fierce competition emerging from teams like the OKC City, Mavericks, and Grizzlies, Denver urgently needs to enhance its roster. While Jokic’s brilliance shines brightly, the Nuggets need more than just their three-time MVP to maintain their status as championship contenders.
Despite their high offensive ranking at seventh in the league, the Nuggets’ performance has dipped from previous seasons. Previously, they finished fifth and fourth, respectively, in offensive efficiency. Just like the Nuggets, Jokic and Jamal Murray also need strong support on the court. Hence, the Nuggets are actively exploring potential trades to address this gap.
Michael Porter Jr. would likely be involved in any major Denver Nuggets trade, per @Tjonesonthenba & @sam_amick
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) December 18, 2024
“Any big trade would likely involve Porter, according to league sources. Porter has long been one of the best shooters in the league. This season, he has rounded into… pic.twitter.com/67UVzPX0ze
In their search for offensive reinforcements, the Nuggets have set their sights on Chicago Bulls shooting guard Zach LaVine, per Sam Amick and Tony Jones of The Athletics. Sources indicate that LaVine is a primary target, thanks to his impressive average of 21.7 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game. At 29 years old, LaVine fits Denver’s needs perfectly.
Nuggets Looking To Pair Nikola Jokic With Top-Tier Superstar
Acquiring LaVine will not come without significant financial considerations. He is currently in the midst of a lucrative contract. He is currently making $43 million this season, which escalates to $45.9 million next season and includes a player option worth $48.9 million for 2026-27. This hefty salary implies that any trade package would likely center around valuable assets from the Nuggets, including potentially Michael Porter Jr.
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But Porter Jr. is too underestimated to trade for a new face. He is currently having a career year with averages of 18.5 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game. Moreover, he continuously shoots from the offensive end while equally contributing to the floor spacing. He is somewhat suited to have Nikola Jokic on the front.
According to Sam Amick, the Nuggets are seriously considering trading for 2x All-Star Zach LaVine, with Michael Porter Jr. reportedly being the key piece in the proposed deal 👀
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) December 18, 2024
Does this rejuvenate Denver into a Championship squad? pic.twitter.com/KcfGMa6blQ
Reportedly, any trade involving LaVine would likely necessitate the inclusion of Porter or another valuable asset like Zeke Nnaji, coupled with a pick swap to entice the Bulls. The Nuggets face the challenge of being a first-apron team in terms of the salary cap, which will limit their available maneuverability in trade negotiations.
While LaVine tops the interest list, the Nuggets have cast a wide net to pair someone with Jokic. They are exploring discussions around other impactful players such as Jordan Poole, Jordan Clarkson, De’Andre Hunter, Cam Johnson, and Jonas Valančiūnas. Considering his scoring off the bench and playoff experience, Clarkson is a valuable addition, potentially aligning well without necessitating a deal involving Porter.
Yet, the financial implications remain a hurdle. Trading for Clarkson may still require the Nuggets to part with an unprotected first-round pick swap, a proposition they might be cautious about.
