Acquiring Dennis Schröder was a step in the right direction for the Golden State Warriors.
Landing a 6-foot-10 Denver Nuggets sharpshooter could help the Warriors contend in the Western Conference.
“Michael Porter Jr. is a player the Golden State Warriors should steer clear of despite his offensive upside,” Fadeaway World’s Eddie Bitar wrote Thursday.
“While his scoring potential is evident—Porter is averaging 18.5 points per game and shooting 38.5% from three—his contract and injury history make him an overpriced and risky acquisition.”
“Porter’s max-level deal puts significant pressure on a team’s cap space, and with Golden State already navigating luxury tax territory, adding such a hefty salary would be a long-term financial burden.”
“A trade for Porter would likely require the Warriors to part with Jonathan Kuminga, a rising young star on a much more affordable contract.”
“Kuminga has shown steady growth this season, contributing 15.4 points per game and 4.4 rebounds per game, while displaying the versatility and athleticism Golden State values.”
“Giving up Kuminga for Porter would be a lateral move at best, with the added risk of Porter’s recurring back issues potentially sidelining him for extended periods.”
“Additionally, Porter’s skill set may not fit seamlessly into the Warriors’ motion-heavy offense.”
“While he excels as a spot-up shooter, his defensive inconsistencies and limited playmaking don’t align with what the team needs around Stephen Curry and Draymond Green.”
“For a franchise prioritizing versatility, health, and financial flexibility, Porter represents a high-cost gamble that Golden State simply cannot afford to take.”
Porter is as consistent as it gets for a three-point specialist, as the Missouri product is shooting above 38% for the third consecutive season.
The textbook jump shooter is also the Nuggets’ third-leading scorer through 26 games, netting 18.4 points per contest on an improved 15-11 Nuggets squad.
While Porter would help bolster the Warriors’ perimeter shooting, there’s a good chance the franchise will go all-in on Kuminga’s development and pass on the Nuggets’ star wing.
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