When reports surfaced about the Denver Nuggets’ interest in trading for Zach LaVine—a player the Bulls have struggled to move despite persistent efforts—it was natural to first consider the move from Chicago’s perspective. Here was a chance to offload an expensive, injury-prone player who, despite his issues, is having a resurgent All-Star-caliber season and could seamlessly fit as a wing scorer and playmaker alongside Nikola Jokic.
However, to make the deal work financially, the Nuggets would likely need to include Michael Porter Jr. in the trade. Porter has not only emerged as a key piece of Denver’s core but is also a fan favorite and one of the franchise’s foundational players alongside Jokic and Jamal Murray.
The Nuggets have publicly stated they have no plans to trade their 26-year-old forward. However, the business side of the NBA often takes precedence, a reality Michael Porter Jr. is fully aware of, as reflected in his recent candid comments about the potential Bulls trade.
The proposed framework for a Zach LaVine-to-Denver trade centers around swapping LaVine for Michael Porter Jr. Reports indicate that Chicago is negotiating over the inclusion of Zeke Nnaji and his four-year, $32 million contract in the deal.
While Nnaji hasn’t been particularly productive for the Nuggets this season, a 23-year-old big man on a team-friendly contract could make more sense for a rebuilding Bulls roster. This element of the deal shouldn’t pose a significant roadblock if it becomes the final sticking point.
The bigger challenge, however, appears to be Denver’s reported reluctance to part ways with Porter Jr., a key piece of their core.
“They’ve contacted me and said it’s all just rumors, nothing serious. They have no intention of trading me at the moment. But I also understand they wouldn’t tell me if they did want to move me.”
Michael Porter Jr. is being refreshingly candid about his situation, which highlights his importance to Denver’s core.
While much of the attention in the LaVine trade talks is on the Bulls guard, it’s worth noting that Porter Jr. is having an exceptional season himself.
Standing at 6-foot-10, the sharpshooter is averaging 18.4 points, 6.8 rebounds, and a career-high 2.8 assists over 28 games. He’s shooting 51.7 percent from the field on a career-best 13.8 attempts and hitting 38.7 percent of his 6.0 three-pointers per game.
Porter Jr. would bring a new dimension to the Bulls with his size, while still providing floor spacing and a three-point threat. While he may not have the athleticism or scoring ability of LaVine, he could arguably be a better fit for Chicago’s needs.
Leave a Reply