Former Laker surfaces on Denver Nuggets' radar with $35.8M player likely to be traded, report reveals

Is a blockbuster trade on the horizon for the Denver Nuggets? The reigning NBA champions are reportedly exploring major roster moves to enhance their title defense, and the latest buzz is centered on two huge names, Zach LaVine and Brandon Ingram. With Nikola Jokić playing out of his mind, the Nuggets are eyeing upgrades, and Michael Porter Jr. might be the key piece in a trade that could shake up the Western Conference. Here's what you need to know about the potential shakeup in Denver.

Nuggets eye trade targets

The Denver Nuggets have found themselves in the midst of a whirlwind of trade rumors, with speculation intensifying over the past 24 hours. As the reigning 2023 NBA champions, it seems their current roster might have reached its peak, prompting a fresh push for reinforcements to complement the brilliance of Nikola Jokić. The three-time MVP has been nothing short of exceptional, posting eye-popping averages of 30.9 points, 13.3 rebounds, and 9.9 assists per game while shooting a staggering 55.8%, including a career-high 48.9% from beyond the arc.


Despite Jokić's exceptional performance, the Nuggets have relied heavily on his all-around game. While his brilliance may get them through the regular season, questions arise about their playoff chances against deeper teams. To strengthen their title defense, the Nuggets are reportedly eyeing upgrades, with Chicago's Zach LaVine emerging as a key target. Adding to the buzz, NBA insider Ian Begley has linked them to former Lakers forward Brandon Ingram. Could a major move be on the horizon for the Nuggets?


"Re: The Athletic report on the Nuggets’ search for a scorer, I’ve heard Brandon Ingram is another player among the group on their radar," Begley tweeted on Tuesday.”


He hinted at the possibility of a high-stakes trade, suggesting that the Denver Nuggets might need to offload Michael Porter Jr.'s hefty $35.8 million contract to clear space for this blockbuster move.


"FWIW: the clearest pathway for Denver to make a trade for a big scorer with a significant salary would be to include Michael Porter Jr. in deal," Begley said. (via: Sportskeeda)


Following a tough 5-22 start to the season, the Pelicans are reportedly considering parting ways with their star tandem, Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson. With trade talks heating up, there's a growing chance that a deal could soon be in the works, potentially reshaping the team's future.

Also Read: Micheal Jordan luxurious lifestyle: Expensive properties, Car collection, Net Worth and more

Would swapping Michael Porter Jr. for Brandon Ingram be the right move?

As the trade deadline nears, the Denver Nuggets face a pivotal decision regarding Michael Porter Jr.'s future. Three years ago, they committed to a five-year, $179.2 million deal, expecting him to evolve into a star. While he played a crucial role in the 2022-23 championship, his performance this season, averaging 18.5 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 2.8 assists, hasn't reached the All-Star level the Nuggets hoped for.


With Jamal Murray’s production slipping, Denver may need more from Porter Jr. Enter Brandon Ingram, a proven 20-point scorer and playmaker with a $36 million expiring contract. Ingram offers a significant offensive upgrade and financial flexibility, making him an intriguing trade target for the Nuggets.