Nuggets Reportedly Exploring 3-Team Trade Featuring Star Forward, Potential Deal with Lakers and Nets
As the NBA offseason approaches, trade speculation is heating up, with teams evaluating roster changes to improve their chances next season.
The Denver Nuggets, who have now exited the playoffs in the second round for two straight years, are among the teams heavily mentioned in trade discussions. With the organization striving to maximize the prime years of three-time MVP Nikola Jokic, a roster overhaul could be on the horizon to stay in championship contention.
One name consistently mentioned in trade rumors is forward Michael Porter Jr., despite his breakout season. Given the Nuggets’ limited trade assets, Porter Jr. could be their most valuable piece to facilitate a significant upgrade.
In a recent mock trade scenario proposed by Sports Illustrated’s Liam Willerup, a potential three-team deal is outlined involving the Nuggets, Los Angeles Lakers, and Brooklyn Nets. The proposed trade has Denver acquiring Rui Hachimura and Dalton Knecht, the Lakers landing center Nicolas Claxton, and the Nets receiving Michael Porter Jr. along with a 2031 first-round pick from Los Angeles.
This proposed move could benefit all sides: the Lakers would secure Claxton, strengthening their starting lineup at center; the Nets would gain a rising star in Porter Jr., who could become the centerpiece of their offense; and the Nuggets would receive valuable contributors, with Hachimura potentially filling Porter Jr.’s role and Knecht boosting their bench scoring.
However, despite the trade’s potential upside, Denver has publicly shown no intent to part ways with Porter Jr. this offseason. Still, if their goal is to reclaim championship status, such a decision may become necessary.
