According to a report from Evan Sidery, the Detroit Pistons are among the teams that have checked in with the Brooklyn Nets regarding forward Michael Porter Jr., joining the Milwaukee Bucks and Golden State Warriors as potential suitors. The Nets are reportedly open to trade conversations centered on prospects and draft capital, and Porter’s production this season has made him one of the most intriguing names available.
Porter, a 6-foot-10 small forward now in his seventh NBA season, is enjoying the best statistical year of his career in Brooklyn. Through 24 games this season, he’s averaging 25.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 3.2 assists, while shooting 49.1% from the field and 40.1% from three. His scoring efficiency and floor spacing have turned him into a go-to offensive weapon, and he currently owns a 21.5 PER, another career high.
A former 14th overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft, Porter spent his first six seasons with the Denver Nuggets, where he developed into a premier wing scorer and helped the franchise win the 2023 NBA Championship. Now 27 years old, he appears to be entering his physical prime, and the league has noticed.
For Detroit, the reported interest signals one thing clearly: this franchise is operating like a contender. Sitting at 24–6 and first in the Eastern Conference, the Pistons have rapidly accelerated their competitive timeline. With Cade Cunningham steering the offense and Jalen Duren and Ausar Thompson anchoring the frontcourt, adding a high-level perimeter scorer like Porter could push Detroit’s ceiling even higher.
Porter’s shot-creation and elite spot-up shooting could slot seamlessly into the Pistons’ lineup, particularly as a wing who can score at all three levels without dominating the ball. His career averages of 16.8 points and 6.5 rebounds per game reflect a player who has consistently produced when healthy.
The question, of course, is cost. Brooklyn appears motivated to stockpile young assets and draft compensation, and Detroit will need to weigh whether a major move is worth breaking up a roster that has found chemistry and identity during this breakout season.
Still, the Pistons’ involvement in discussions marks a dramatic shift from years past.
Detroit is no longer browsing the trade market to acquire rebuild pieces.
They are shopping with a win-now mindset, and Michael Porter Jr. is the caliber of player you pursue when you believe your window is opening.
