In exchange, Denver Nuggets received wing Cam Johnson from the Brooklyn Nets. The deal, finalized just as the NBA’s free agency period began, marks a notable shift for both franchises as they reshape their rosters for the 2025-26 season.

Michael Porter Jr. Goes To Brooklyn

Michael Porter Jr., 27, heads to the Nets after spending his entire NBA career with the Nuggets. A key part of Denver’s 2023 championship team, Porter averaged 18.2 points and 7 rebounds per game last season while shooting nearly 40% from three-point range.

Despite his production, Porter’s large contract—set to pay him $38.3 million next season and $40.8 million in 2026-27—became a challenge for the Nuggets as they looked to manage their salary cap and maintain roster flexibility.

In return, Denver acquires Cam Johnson, a 29-year-old wing who is coming off a career-best season with Brooklyn. Johnson averaged 18 points per game and shot 39% from beyond the arc on high volume, making him one of the league’s most dangerous perimeter threats.

His contract is considerably more manageable, with $21 million owed in 2025-26 and $23 million in 2026-27, giving the Nuggets immediate cap relief and the ability to re-sign key role players such as Bruce Brown.

As part of the deal, Denver also sends Brooklyn their only tradeable first-round pick—an unprotected selection in 2032. This pick could become highly valuable in the future, depending on how the Nuggets’ roster evolves over the next several years.

What It Means for Both Teams

For Denver, the trade is primarily about financial flexibility and roster balance. By moving Porter’s contract and acquiring a high-level shooter in Johnson, the Nuggets can better manage their payroll while maintaining a competitive core around Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray.

For Brooklyn, the deal is about asset accumulation and upside. The Nets take on Porter’s sizable contract but gain a proven scorer and a potentially valuable unprotected first-round pick. Porter could either be a long-term piece or a trade asset for Brooklyn as they continue to build for the future.

While only time will tell how the trade shapes the fortunes of both teams, the deal stands out as one of the more impactful moves of the 2025 NBA offseason, with both franchises making bold decisions to address their current needs and future ambitions.