The Brooklyn Nets hosted the Denver Nuggets Sunday afternoon, in the midst of a three-game losing streak.
Although he's been the topic of trade rumors recently, Michael Porter Jr. Was especially amped up for the matchup, facing his former team for the first time since being traded.
In order to move on from Porter Jr.'s contract, Denver sent him and a first round pick to Brooklyn for Cameron Johnson, an efficient three-point shooter who can stretch the floor.
That said, Porter Jr. Got his revenge in the absence of Nikola Jokic, scoring 27 points and grabbing 11 rebounds as Brooklyn secured a 12-point victory.
Porter Jr. Spent seven seasons (missed his entire rookie season due to injury) with Denver and averaged 16.2 points and 6.4 rebounds in 345 games after being selected 14th overall in 2018.
Most notably, Porter Jr. Was apart of the Nuggets' championship winning team in 2023, their first title in franchise history.
Following the game, Porter Jr. Reflected on facing his former squad. “I was excited for that first match really since I've been traded. I was looking forward to playing against those guys. For sure it’s been circled on my calendar for a minute (...) So it was fun.”
With the win, Brooklyn improves to 11-22, tied with the Charlotte Hornets for 12th place in the conference.
The Nets will have Monday and Tuesday off before returning to action Wednesday against the Orlando Magic.
Brooklyn should be back to full strength for that matchup as head coach Jordi Fernandez said he expects Nic Claxton to return after missing Sunday's game due to personal reasons.
More NBA news:
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander praises Chet Holmgren for OKC's success
- LeBron James breaks another scoring record in win over Grizzlies
- Tyrese Maxey: 'Joel Embiid was really the first person to believe in me'
- One of the NBA's most efficient players is on a two-way contract
- Cam Thomas' most recent dispute with Brooklyn ignites trade rumors
- Miami reveals the status of Tyler Herro, Bam Adebyao and more ahead of Saturday's game
- Guerschon Yabusele addresses his future with the Knicks following trade rumors