Paul Pierce has stirred conversation among NBA fans and analysts by recommending that the Denver Nuggets trade Michael Porter Jr. for DeMar DeRozan, amid growing Michael Porter Jr. trade rumors with DeMar DeRozan. Despite claiming the NBA title in 2023 with Nikola Jokić as their star, the Nuggets have failed to advance beyond the second round of the playoffs in the last two seasons, prompting questions about their supporting cast’s effectiveness.
Challenges Facing the Denver Nuggets’ Supporting Players
While Nikola Jokić continues performing at an MVP level, the spotlight on his teammates has intensified, particularly on Michael Porter Jr. Many blamed Porter’s inconsistent performances for the Nuggets’ unexpected elimination by the Oklahoma City Thunder. This scrutiny reflects the team’s ambition to remain serious contenders and secure another championship quickly, pushing them to consider roster changes.
Paul Pierce’s Proposal: Bringing DeMar DeRozan to Denver
Paul Pierce suggested that the Nuggets could benefit from trading Porter to acquire DeMar DeRozan from the Sacramento Kings. DeRozan is recognized for his elite mid-range shooting and veteran presence, which Pierce believes would complement Nikola Jokić’s playstyle. Pierce emphasized that DeRozan wouldn’t need to be the team’s leading scorer every night but would consistently provide solid contributions:
“I feel like if they had a DeMar DeRozan with that team right now, with Joker, he don’t need to be the best player or the second-best player every night. He is going to give you more than what Michael Porter Jr. gave you.”
—Paul Pierce, Former NBA Player
Comparing Porter and DeRozan: Strengths and Concerns
DeRozan’s scoring versatility and experience arguably make him an upgrade over Porter in certain aspects. However, Porter’s role as a volume three-point shooter highlights a contrasting skill set compared to DeRozan’s mid-range focus. Critics argue that replacing a younger player with an aging scorer might not be the strategic move Denver needs to sustain championship contention.
Contract situations add complexity to such a trade. DeRozan is signed with Sacramento for three years totaling approximately $73.9 million and will become a free agent following the 2027-2028 season. Porter holds a longer five-year, $179.3 million deal, also expiring around the same time. With comparable contract lengths and salary ranges—Porter earning roughly $10 million more—the two franchises could theoretically negotiate a deal.
Weighing the Risks and Rewards for the Nuggets
Despite similarities in contract terms, Porter’s significant youth advantage—being nine years younger than DeRozan—suggests he has more potential growth and prime years ahead. Conversely, DeRozan offers a seasoned presence with a distinctive style, potentially providing stability during clutch moments and playoffs. Trading Porter would be a calculated gamble, weighing immediate veteran impact against long-term talent development.
As the offseason approaches, Nuggets fans and analysts remain curious if the organization will pursue this suggested trade or explore alternative strategies to strengthen the roster. The decision will have notable implications for Denver’s title aspirations and how the supporting cast complements Jokić’s dominance.