The Golden State Warriors are keeping a close eye on Brooklyn Nets forward Michael Porter Jr. as the Feb. 5 trade deadline approaches, and there’s real traction behind the scenes. According to reporting from NBA on NBC, the Nets have placed a steep price tag on Porter Jr., reportedly asking for multiple first-round picks. That’s a big swing-but one the Warriors are clearly monitoring.
Golden State is betting that Brooklyn’s stance might soften as the deadline nears. Around the league, there’s a growing belief that if no team meets the Nets’ current asking price, they may be forced to come back to earth. And if that happens, Porter Jr. becomes a top priority for the Warriors.
This is more than just smoke. Porter Jr. left the Denver Nuggets this past offseason looking for a bigger role, and he’s found it in Brooklyn-at least on the stat sheet.
He’s averaging career highs across the board: 24.9 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game. That kind of production doesn’t go unnoticed, especially for a Warriors team still searching for consistent offensive firepower.
But Brooklyn’s willingness to move him isn’t just about performance-it’s about the books. The Nets acquired Porter Jr. in a deal that sent Cam Johnson to Denver, largely motivated by financial flexibility.
Porter Jr. is owed roughly $38 million in 2025-26 and $40 million in 2026-27, a heavy cap hit under the NBA’s new collective bargaining rules. For a team trying to retool or rebuild, that kind of number can be tough to carry.
Still, Porter Jr. is making his presence felt on the court. In Tuesday night’s 106-102 loss to the Phoenix Suns, he dropped a season-high 36 points, adding five rebounds and three assists. It wasn’t enough to snap Brooklyn’s skid-the Nets have now lost six straight and nine of their last ten-but Porter Jr. continues to shine individually.
Brooklyn, now sitting at 12-33, is heading to Denver next. That return to Ball Arena could be an emotional one for Porter Jr., who spent the first five years of his career with the Nuggets. Whether it’s a short-term stop or a long-term home, his time in Brooklyn is clearly at a crossroads-and the Warriors are watching closely.