Michael Porter Jr at the center of NBA trade rumors before the deadline

Four teams are monitoring the Brooklyn Nets forward. The Milwaukee Bucks, Detroit Pistons, Golden State Warriors and Chicago Bulls are interested in Michael Porter Jr., who is shining this season with 25.8 points per game.

Michael Porter Jr. could well be one of the most sought-after players before the NBA trade deadline on February 5th. The Brooklyn Nets forward, having a very strong season, is attracting interest from several ambitious franchises.

Four suitors for the former NBA champion

According to NBA insider Jake Fischer, four teams are positioning themselves on the Michael Porter Jr. file: the Milwaukee Bucks, the Detroit Pistons, the Golden State Warriors and the Chicago Bulls. The Warriors have already held « internal discussions » regarding a potential acquisition of the 27-year-old player, while the Pistons have not yet contacted the Nets to inquire about his availability.

On the Milwaukee side, Sam Amick from The Athletic had previously reported that Porter was considered a « name to watch » for the Bucks. This lead makes perfect sense when you know the offensive needs of Giannis Antetokounmpo’s team, looking for reinforcements.

The former Denver Nuggets player, NBA champion in 2023, is posting impressive statistics this season with 25.8 points, 7.5 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game. His shooting percentages (49.6% from the field, 41.0% from 3-point range, 81.2% from free throws) make him a formidable scorer at all levels.

Brooklyn not in a hurry to sell

Despite the interest generated, the Nets don’t seem willing to sell their star player cheaply. « The Nets, at this stage, consider themselves more listening to offers for Porter rather than actively seeking a trade », explains Jake Fischer.

The New York franchise could even wait until the offseason before making a final decision, in order to use Porter’s contract as trade currency in potentially more ambitious summer transactions.

With a record of 10 wins and 20 losses, Brooklyn currently occupies 13th place in the Eastern Conference. However, the team is coming off seven wins in their last eleven games, with Porter Jr. averaging 28.3 points over this period while shooting 47.5% from 3-point range. This surge in performance only increases his market value and could trigger a bidding war before the deadline.