Following another disappointing playoff exit, the Denver Nuggets are under pressure to make a bold move this offseason. Former NBA champion Paul Pierce believes the Nuggets should trade forward Michael Porter Jr. and bring in a six-time All-Star, DeMar DeRozan, to maximize the title window. He thinks DeRozan could help Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray make another run at a championship.
The Nuggets finished the regular season with a 50-32 record, securing the fourth seed in the Western Conference. Despite a strong run, they fell in a long Game 7 stretch to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the semifinals. This was their second start-up year, in which they were eliminated in a game 7.
Speaking on the show, KG Certified with Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce clarified that he considers DeMar DeRozan a better fit. For the Denver Nuggets. “I feel like if they had a DeMar DeRozan with that team right now, with Joker, he doesn’t need to be the best or second-best player every night. He will give you more than what Michael Porter Jr. gave you,” Pierce stated.
Paul Pierce says the Nuggets should trade Michael Porter Jr. for DeMar DeRozan
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) May 27, 2025
“I feel like if they had a DeMar DeRozan with that team right now, with Joker, he don’t need to be the best player or the second-best player every night. He is going to give you more than what Michael… pic.twitter.com/Zcf9q0qNtR
DeRozan averaged 22.2 points and shot 47.7% from the field with the Sacramento Kings this season. Though the team missed the playoffs, with trade rumors swirling and DeRozan potentially available, Denver could have a key chance to reshape their roster for another title push.
Michael Porter Jr’s Playoff Contribution During His Injury Issue
Michael Porter Jr. played through a painful sprained left shoulder and a lingering foot issue during the playoffs. He delivered a gusty performance in Game 3 of the semifinals against the Thunder. Despite limited mobility and discomfort, he scored 21 points on 7 of 10 shooting, including 5-of-6 from three, and grabbed eight rebounds to help the Nuggets secure a 113-104 overtime win.
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral NBA stories via Google! Follow Us
Porter’s resilience impressed both fans and his team. His grit under pressure reflects his deep commitment to the team. This unmatchable perseverance could prove substantial as the Nuggets will look to fight in their upcoming series. Whether they trade him or not, his valuable impact will remain vital for the Nuggets’ depth.
