The Denver Nuggets started the 2021-22 NBA season 9-4, but they have lost four straight games and things are only getting worse for this organization.
Jamal Murray is going to be out until sometime in 2022 as he continues to rehab from ACL surgery, Nikola Jokic has been dealing with a wrist injury and now, Michael Porter Jr., who has been out since November 9 with a back injury, is at risk of missing the rest of the season.
Mike Singer of The Denver Post reported on Sunday night that Porter is dealing with a nerve issue in his back that could require surgery.
“Nuggets forward Michael Porter Jr. is dealing with a nerve issue in his back that could jeopardize his season, league sources told The Denver Post.
“The Nuggets have been vague about specifics of the injury and when Porter might be expected back. They have given him a timeline of a week to show improvements before considering other treatment options. Another back surgery is a possibility, sources said.”
Mike Singer – The Denver Post
Initially said to be dealing with back tightness, it was revealed by head coach Michael Malone last week that the young forward could miss an “extended period of time” and now this nerve issue in his back seems to be the worst news the Nuggets could have received.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Nuggets’ Michael Porter Jr. Could Miss Rest Of Season
Not only does this put more of the team’s burden on the backs of Nikola Jokic and Will Barton, but this injury to Michael Porter Jr. could result in the Nuggets being taken out of contention in the Western Conference this season.
With not a whole lot of talent on the wing and very limited cap space, the Nuggets do not have many options on how to replace Porter should he miss the rest of the season. However, they could look to free up some cap space in a trade and go after Magic wing Terrence Ross, who is likely to be moved ahead of the trade deadline this season.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Nuggets’ Michael Porter Jr. Could Miss Rest Of Season
Orlando is rebuilding and Ross, who is going to be turning 31-years-old this season, is a prime trade target for several playoff contending teams around the league. Being owed $12.5M this season and having one more year left on his contract, the veteran could be a tough trade target for the Nuggets to replace Michael Porter Jr. with, but they do have one way they can make this trade a reality.
If Denver is willing to pay a little bit extra in taxes this season, they can acquire Terrence Ross and tighten things up on the wing without Porter being available. Let’s take a look at what this trade could wind up looking like, especially since the Boston Celtics would also be involved.
