Proposed Trade Could Send Mikal Bridges to the Denver Nuggets for Next Season
The Denver Nuggets might pursue a significant trade this summer by acquiring Mikal Bridges from the Brooklyn Nets. The Nuggets’ hopes for a consecutive championship were dashed after a tough 4-3 series loss at home to the Minnesota Timberwolves, who advanced to the Western Conference Finals against the Mavericks. This unexpected exit suggests potential changes to enhance Denver’s competitiveness.
Several Nuggets players struggled to replicate their previous season’s form during the series. Nikola Jokić had an inconsistent performance, and Jamal Murray was hindered by persistent injuries. The most concerning was Michael Porter Jr.’s poor showing against Minnesota, highlighting a need for reinforcement. Mikal Bridges, known for his defensive skills and reliable shooting, could be a key addition. A proposed trade might send Porter Jr. to Brooklyn in exchange for Bridges, addressing significant needs for both teams and potentially reshaping the Nuggets’ roster for next season.
Trade Details
- Denver Nuggets receive: Mikal Bridges
- Brooklyn Nets receive: Michael Porter Jr., Christian Braun, 2030 first-round pick
This trade would address key weaknesses for both teams. The Nuggets would gain a versatile defender and reliable shooter in Bridges, enhancing their balance and defensive capabilities. The Nets would receive a promising talent in Porter Jr., a young player in Braun, and a valuable future draft pick, aiding their rebuilding efforts.
Why the Nuggets Could Improve
Michael Porter Jr.’s performance in the 2024 Western Conference Semifinals against the Timberwolves was underwhelming, with averages of 10.7 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game, shooting just 37.1% from the field and 32.5% from three-point range. His struggles were most evident in Game 7, where he scored only 7 points on 3-12 shooting. These numbers highlight a significant concern for the Nuggets, who need consistent and reliable production from key players during crucial playoff moments.
In contrast, Mikal Bridges had an excellent season, averaging 19.6 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game, with a shooting efficiency of 43.6% from the field and 37.2% from beyond the arc. He played all 82 games, showcasing his durability, which contrasts with Porter Jr.’s injury history.
Defensively, Bridges could be transformative for the Nuggets in the playoffs. His ability to guard multiple positions makes him ideal for defending elite scorers like Anthony Edwards, allowing Aaron Gordon to focus on Karl-Anthony Towns, and Jokić to handle Rudy Gobert, thus maintaining favorable matchups.
Offensively, Bridges’ higher scoring average and shooting efficiency would provide the Nuggets with a more dependable scoring option. His durability offers a level of reliability that Porter Jr. has struggled to match due to recurring injuries. This trade could bring the Nuggets the stability and defensive prowess needed for a deeper playoff run next season.
Why the Nets Should Consider This Deal
The Brooklyn Nets ended the season with a 32-50 record, finishing 11th in the Eastern Conference. Despite having a lottery pick, their young core lacks the experience and talent necessary for a near-future championship. This trade offers a strategic opportunity to bolster their roster with young, promising talent while planning for the future.
In this trade, the Nets would acquire Michael Porter Jr., a 25-year-old forward with averages of 16.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game in the regular season. Although he has had injury issues, his potential as a scorer and rebounder is undeniable. Pairing him with the Nets’ young talents like Cam Thomas, Cam Johnson, and Nic Claxton could accelerate their rebuilding process.
Additionally, the Nets would gain Christian Braun, a 23-year-old guard with NBA championship experience. Braun averaged 7.3 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 1.6 assists in 82 games, demonstrating his reliability and potential for growth. His youth and championship pedigree would be valuable assets for a rebuilding Nets team.
Trading Bridges, who averaged 19.6 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.6 assists, makes sense given his age and contract status. At 28 years old, with only two years left on his contract, Bridges might not align with the Nets’ long-term plans. Trading him now maximizes his value rather than waiting until he becomes an expiring contract next year.
Mikal Bridges’ Playoff Experience
Mikal Bridges has shown his playoff capabilities, making him valuable for any team aiming for a deep postseason run. In the 2021 NBA Finals with the Phoenix Suns, Bridges averaged 12.0 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game, shooting 43% from three-point range. His consistent performance was crucial as the Suns advanced to the Finals.
In the 2022 playoffs, Bridges averaged 13.3 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 2.8 assists over 13 games, with a 39% shooting percentage from three-point range. His performance was significant, even though the Suns were eliminated by the Mavericks.
In the 2023 playoffs, despite the Nets being swept by the 76ers, Bridges stood out with averages of 23.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game, shooting 40% from beyond the arc. His impressive performance in high-pressure situations highlights his ability to elevate his game.
If the Nuggets acquire Bridges, they would gain a player with proven playoff experience and the ability to perform under pressure. As a third scoring option behind Jokić and Murray, Bridges could thrive, leveraging his offensive growth. His elite perimeter defense would also be crucial for the Nuggets, helping them match up better against top-tier opponents.
Will the Nuggets Make This Move?
It’s uncertain if the Nuggets will trade Michael Porter Jr. this offseason. The team has a core that won the championship just last year, making any major changes a difficult decision. Trading Porter Jr., who has shown flashes of brilliance despite recent struggles, isn’t something the Nuggets would consider lightly.
However, the Nuggets need to address their weaknesses to push further next season. This proposed trade offers them a reliable defender and scorer in Bridges, along with significant financial benefits. Bridges’ $23.5 million contract compared to Porter Jr.’s $35.8 million would free up cap space for additional high-caliber signings.
Balancing loyalty to their championship core with the need for strategic improvements is challenging. While Porter Jr. has been integral to the team’s recent success, his inconsistent playoff performance and injury history suggest that a change might be necessary to maintain competitiveness.
Ultimately, this trade could provide the Nuggets with an opportunity to enhance their roster with a proven playoff performer like Bridges, improve their defensive capabilities, and gain financial flexibility. Although it’s a tough decision, the potential benefits make it a move worth considering for another championship run.
