Denver, CO – In a stunning turn of events that left fans buzzing, Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone put an end to the swirling trade rumors surrounding Michael Porter Jr., making a definitive statement after Monday night’s 125-113 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans. His words were clear and firm: “We’re not trading Michael Porter.”
The speculation had gained traction ahead of the February 6 trade deadline, with Porter’s contract and high-level play fueling conversations about a potential blockbuster move. However, after the forward’s season-high 36-point performance—featuring a scorching 7-of-12 from beyond the arc—Malone made it known that Denver is not looking to part ways with one of its key pieces.
When asked if he had addressed the rumors with Porter, Malone dismissed the notion entirely. “No, because we’re not trading Michael Porter,” he reiterated. “I’m not touching base with anybody on that. If something were happening, [Nuggets GM Calvin Booth] would talk to me, and we’d communicate with the players. But Michael is a really important piece—he helped us win a championship.”
Despite Malone’s strong stance, the trade rumors weren’t entirely baseless. Porter, who has been thriving this season after overcoming past back injuries, remains the only Nugget making over $9 million who is eligible to be moved before the deadline. With Denver facing some inconsistency, many believed he could be the centerpiece of a significant deal.
Standing at 6-foot-10 with elite shooting ability, Porter has become an iron man for Denver, playing all 81 games last season and every contest so far this year. His reliability and offensive firepower have solidified his role, making the idea of trading him all the more shocking to fans and analysts alike.
Porter himself, however, appears unfazed by the speculation. “As long as I’m here, I’m going to be here. I’m happy, I’m playing hard, and I’m helping this team win,” he said postgame. “If the day ever came where they wanted to trade me, I’d be excited for a new opportunity. But it’s not something I think about at all.”
Currently in the third year of his five-year, $179 million rookie max extension, Porter still has nearly $80 million left on his contract over the next two seasons. His hefty salary makes him an attractive trade asset, but Malone’s emphatic response suggests the Nuggets have no plans to make a drastic move.
For now, Denver fans can breathe a sigh of relief. With Porter locked in and playing some of his best basketball, the Nuggets appear focused on defending their championship rather than shaking up their core. But in the ever-unpredictable NBA, one can never say never.