The Denver Nuggets made headlines Monday with a surprising and bold roster shake-up. ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that the Nuggets are sending forward Michael Porter Jr. and an unprotected 2032 first-round pick to the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for sharpshooting forward Cam Johnson.
The trade swaps two talented wings who are both entering the final two years of their current contracts. Porter is set to earn $38.3 million in the upcoming 2025-26 season, while Johnson will make $21.1 million.
BREAKING: The Denver Nuggets are trading Michael Porter Jr. and an unprotected 2032 first-round pick to the Brooklyn Nets for Cam Johnson, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/o6rdWhu3Rl
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2025
Though both had strong seasons in 2024-25, the move has sparked major debate. Johnson arrives in Denver following the best year of his NBA career. In 57 games for Brooklyn, Johnson averaged a personal best of 18.8 points along with 4.3 rebounds and 3.4 assists per game.
On the other hand, Porter Jr. also had a stellar 2024-25 campaign. In 77 games, he posted averages of 18.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 2.1 assists.
Despite the similar scoring averages, the Nuggets also included an unprotected future first-round pick in the deal. It raised eyebrows around the league.
Fans React To Michael Porter Jr. And Cam Johnson’s Trade
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The fan response to Denver’s move was swift and largely critical. Many questioned the logic behind trading a key piece of the core, especially with a first-round pick attached.
“WHO WON THIS TRADE ??” one fan asked.
WHO WON THIS TRADE ??
— 𝐁𝐱𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐨 ☆ (@Bxnchero) June 30, 2025
“WHAT A TRADE NUGGETS LOST,” one comment read.
WHAT A TRADE NUGGETS LOST
— 𝟐𝟑 👑 (@BronWorld) June 30, 2025
One fan added, “really traded MPJ and a first for a worst player.”
really traded mpj and a first for a worst player😭
— illicit ✞ (@Illicitraps) June 30, 2025
A more cautious comment came from a fan who wrote, “Idk if this make the Nuggets that much better.”
Idk if this make the nuggets that much better. 🤔.
— Big Dog Pistons (@bigdogpistons1) June 30, 2025
One fan acknowledged the risk Denver is taking as one user commented, “This is hella interesting by the Nuggets.”
This is hella interesting by the Nuggets
— Aidan LaPorta (@AidanLaPorta69) June 30, 2025
The Nuggets are likely betting on Cam Johnson’s versatility and better contract value as they look to reshape the roster around Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray. But parting ways with a reliable scorer along with a valuable future pick makes this trade a gamble that fans aren’t convinced will pay off.
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