Overview
- Sports Illustrated’s Chris Mannix reports the Nets want multiple first-round picks for Michael Porter Jr., and league chatter suggests the Warriors would prioritize him if the cost falls.
- Heavy reports Golden State has signaled a cap near two first-rounders, with one protected, reflecting reluctance to overpay draft capital.
- Porter is having a career-best season, averaging roughly 25 points and 7 rebounds per game, and he just posted a season-high 36 points against the Suns.
- His contract is sizable—about $38 million this season and around $40 million next—requiring significant salary matching for any acquiring team.
- Golden State’s urgency at wing has grown after a reported season-ending ACL for Jimmy Butler and an injury to trade-seeking Jonathan Kuminga, sharpening focus on options before the Feb. 5 deadline.