Apr 25, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) controls the ball against Denver Nuggets forward Michael Porter Jr. (1) during the first half in game three of the first round for the 2024 NBA playoffs at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Denver Nuggets star Michael Porter Jr. and the Los Angeles Lakers are said to be involved in a sensational trade.
At this point, it’s nearly certain that the Los Angeles Lakers will have a revamped roster next season. LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and possibly Austin Reaves are expected to be the primary core, but it seems everyone else is up for grabs.
The Lakers are likely to aim for acquiring a big name or two this summer. At least one NBA executive thinks they should target Denver Nuggets star Michael Porter Jr.
Los Angeles Lakers Eyeing Nuggets’ Michael Porter Jr.
Porter played a crucial role in eliminating the Lakers in the first round. The 6-foot-10 small forward averaged 18.8 points on 55.3 percent shooting and 8.4 rebounds, while hitting 4.0 three-pointers per game at a remarkable 48.8 percent rate. In the opening round, MPJ’s shooting from deep was a significant factor against the Lakers.
An Eastern Conference GM believes this is exactly why LA should consider acquiring the 25-year-old swingman.
“If they want to get better, that’s who they should target,” the exec told Sean Deveney of Heavy Sports. “They need a shooter who isn’t afraid to take shots, and they’d benefit greatly if he can play as a 3-4 like LeBron, without being a size mismatch. A reliable shooter who creates space is the first step to getting back to contender status.”
This perspective makes a lot of sense. The question, however, is whether Porter is even available. He is currently under contract with the Nuggets until 2027, and it would likely require a significant trade offer for Denver to consider letting him go.
That said, the Nuggets are coming off a disappointing title defense, so they might be open to making changes this summer. If Porter does become available, the Lakers will face competition for the former Missouri standout.
