NBA star worth $215 million mentioned as possible Nuggets trade target

The Denver Nuggets have lost some key pieces since winning the NBA championship in 2023. Versatile guard Bruce Brown left in free agency this summer, and sharp-shooting winger Kentavious Caldwell-Pope did the same this offseason.

While Denver is still considered one of the best teams in the NBA, they may be looking for more upgrades at the trade deadline. With reigning league MVP Nikola Jokic, the Nuggets are under even more pressure to stay in the race.

In a recent article, Bleacher Report's Grant Hughes named his top three trade targets for each NBA team. His suggestion for the Nuggets is interesting.

Citing Chicago Bulls star Zach LaVine as a possible trade target for the Nuggets, Hughes explained that the $215 million two-time All-Star could be an option if Denver wants to sign Michael Porter Jr. and his big contract .

“If Denver wants to do something consistent, the best option might be to move Michael Porter Jr. and his $35.9 million salary (plus two more years after that at an average annual value of just under $40 million) “Hughes wrote.

On the LaVine perspective, Hughes added: “LaVine is making about $7 million more than MPJ next season, so prior to this hypothetical deal, Denver would have to find another way to reduce salary – perhaps using Nnaji with a pick swap is left to a renovation company.” attached.”

LaVine is a more proven scorer than Porter Jr., but his career 38.2 percent rate from deep isn't quite as high as Porter's 41.0 percent mark. Although both are great shooters, Porter's long-range accuracy is a perfect match for Jokic.

Porter is also three years younger than LaVine and appears to be a player Denver remains committed to.

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