After winning the NBA Finals, the Denver Nuggets took a step back in 2024, getting eliminated in the Western Conference Semifinals.
Currently sitting at 18-13, the Nuggets are sixth in the Western Conference. There’s a feeling that the team could take another leap forward this season, but it may require a trade to reach the next level.
Multiple NBA scouts and executives suggest the Nuggets should trade Michael Porter Jr. for Jimmy Butler, who is rumored to be on the trading block. Hoops Hype’s NBA insider Mike Scotto reported, “NBA scouts and executives who spoke with HoopsHype believe Denver should try and dangle Porter Jr. to make a run at Miami’s Jimmy Butler, despite Heat executive Pat Riley publicly denying that Butler will be traded before the deadline. Teams such as the Warriors, who’ve kept tabs on Butler since the summer, will continue to do so before the trade deadline.”
While Porter would play a major role in the trade, the Miami Heat would likely need more than just him to give up their six-time All-Star. However, with Butler expected to opt out of his contract next season, Miami could be better off trading him for something valuable rather than risk losing him for nothing in the offseason.
Porter Jr. is under contract until 2026-27, giving Miami a potential long-term asset next to Bam Adebayo and the rest of their core. At the very least, Porter would add another high-level scorer to their team.
