In search of a high-caliber offensive option on the back line, the Nuggets would be watching, according to The Athleticvery carefully the Zach LaVine file. To get him back, it will probably be necessary to let Michael Porter Jr. into the operation.
Since the start of the season, the Nuggets have been dependent on the play of Nikola Jokic. Going from one of the worst to the best team in the league in terms of collective ratings when the Joker is on the floor. A pleasant situation when Jokic plays and performs at his level, or when he misses a match.
To remedy this, the Nuggets have several strings to their bow. Jamal Murray, the three-time MVP’s chief lieutenant, has been far too inconsistent since late October for us to make him a reliable option in a significant percentage of games. So we had the idea, in Denver, of adding a piece that now ensures around twenty points per evening by punching, and much more on a good day. And with that in mind, Zach LaVine is mentioned by Sam Amick and Tony Jones, reporters at The Athletic. Chicago is also a seller.
The Nuggets would be very interested in Zach LaVine, and could work on a potential trade with Chicago according to @sam_amick et @Tjonesonthenba.
Michael Porter Jr and Zeke Nnaji are the basic pieces mentioned in exchange, there’s work.
Denver wants an option… pic.twitter.com/EXfcWUppsl
— TrashTalk (@TrashTalk_fr) December 18, 2024
A source within the league told insiders that in the event of an exchange, Michael Porter Jr would probably have to be let go, mainly for reasons of salary balance. Zeke Nnaji is also a name mentioned to possibly accompany MPJ, as well as a Draft round.
The question is therefore: will the Nuggs be ready to let go of Porter Jr, an important member in the history of the group, drafted by Denver, champion in 2023? In the message, there is a clear change of tone. Sending a notable piece elsewhere in terms of identity means sacrificing emotion for reality. A necessary change? It’s already happened, for the better, remember Boston, which let go of Marcus Smart to go to the title afterwards.