Michael Porter Jr. came to Brooklyn this offseason with something to prove - not just to the league, but to himself. After years of being labeled as a high-level scorer with limited versatility, Porter is flipping that narrative on its head with the Nets. And now, 20 games into the season, he’s not just thriving - he’s looking like an All-Star.
Porter’s numbers jump off the page: 26.3 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game, all while shooting a blistering 50.1% from the field and 40.3% from deep. That’s elite production, but what’s more impressive is how he’s doing it.
This isn’t just a hot shooting stretch. This is a player who’s been handed more responsibility and is delivering with poise, consistency, and confidence.
Head coach Jordi Fernandez has clearly empowered Porter to take on a bigger role in Brooklyn’s offense than he ever had in Denver. And Porter’s responded by expanding his game beyond the catch-and-shoot wing many had him pegged as.
He’s creating off the dribble, attacking closeouts with purpose, and showing improved playmaking instincts. That 3.2 assists per game stat?
It’s not just a number - it’s a sign of a player who’s reading the floor better and making the right plays.
But beyond the box score, it’s clear Porter is finding a rhythm - and a home - in Brooklyn. “Yeah, I love it here.
I love the staff, I love the energy of practice,” he said recently. That kind of buy-in matters, especially for a team in the midst of a rebuild.
The Nets aren’t just looking for talent - they’re looking for players who want to be part of the foundation. And Porter seems to get that.
“Everyone gets along and has great vibes and great energy around the facility,” he added. “So whatever team wants and appreciates what I bring to the table, then that’s where I want to be. And I feel like they do here.”
Of course, this is the NBA - and with great play comes trade buzz. Porter’s name has been floating around in league circles, not because he’s underperforming, but because he’s playing so well that teams are calling. That’s the double-edged sword of a breakout season on a team still figuring out its long-term direction.
But for now, Porter’s focus is on Brooklyn. He’s not just putting up numbers - he’s helping set a tone.
His on-court production is matched by a clear commitment to the culture the Nets are trying to build. Whether he finishes the season in Brooklyn or not, Porter has made one thing clear: he’s not just passing through.
He wants to be part of something bigger.
And if he keeps playing at this level, he might just be one of the key pieces that helps bring the Nets’ rebuild full circle.