Denver Nuggets’ Michael Porter, Jr. Set to Return from Injury
After playing in only nine games this season due to a lingering back injury, Michael Porter, Jr. of the Denver Nuggets is finally on the road to recovery. While he had to undergo surgery to address the issue, Porter is now awaiting clearance from the team to resume practicing, with hopes of returning to the court in March.
Positive Impact on the Nuggets
This news comes as a relief for the Denver Nuggets (36-25) who currently hold the #6 seed in the highly competitive Western Conference playoff standings. The team has been treading water, and with Porter’s potential return, they could see a significant boost in performance. The Dallas Mavericks, who also have a 36-25 record, currently hold the tiebreaker over the Nuggets, placing them in the #5 seed. With Porter back in the lineup, the Nuggets have a chance to enhance their playoff positioning.
Potential Return of Jamal Murray
Additionally, there is hope for the Nuggets as Jamal Murray, who suffered an ACL injury last season, could also make a comeback before the end of the regular season. While both Murray and Porter were absent for a significant portion of the season, Nikola Jokic stepped up as the team’s primary scoring option. Jokic, the reigning MVP, has been putting up impressive numbers throughout the season, averaging 25.5 points, 13.8 rebounds, and 8.0 assists per game. His stellar performance has been instrumental in keeping the Nuggets competitive.
If Murray and Porter can rejoin the lineup, the Nuggets will become an even more formidable opponent in the postseason. At the moment, they have +3500 odds to win the 2022 NBA Championship according to the latest update from DraftKings. Additionally, bettors can back the Nuggets to win the Western Conference with +1500 odds.
Porter’s Struggles and Road to Recovery
During the previous season, Porter showcased his skills by shooting an impressive 44.5% from beyond the arc. His scoring average saw a significant increase from 9.3 points per game in his rookie season to 19.0 points per game in his second season. This performance earned him a max-contract extension, setting high expectations for his future.
However, things took a different turn for Porter in his third season. Struggling with a back injury, he experienced a decline in performance, averaging only 9.9 points per game and shooting a dismal 20.8% from 3-point range. He appeared slower and sluggish on the court, even expressing concerns about numbness in his arms and hands, which could be attributed to the preexisting back injury he faced.
The Nuggets initially rested Porter, hoping that the time off would alleviate his back issues. However, when the numbness persisted, they made the decision to shut him down indefinitely. After three weeks of inactivity without any signs of improvement, Porter and the team opted for surgery in late November. This marked Porter’s third back surgery, a worrisome situation given his young age of 23.
Now, after three months since the surgery, Porter is poised to rejoin the Nuggets and contribute to their playoff push.
Remaining Schedule: Promising Opportunities
The Nuggets have 21 games left on their schedule, with a lopsided distribution of 14 home games in the thin air of Colorado and only seven road games. Their recent success, extending their winning streak to six games, has given the team momentum heading into the final stretch of the regular season.
Over the course of the week, the Nuggets have three upcoming home games against teams with losing records. On Wednesday, they will face the Oklahoma City Thunder (19-41), followed by a matchup against the struggling Houston Rockets (15-45) on Friday. They will then wrap up the week by hosting the New Orleans Pelicans (25-36) on Sunday.
The Pelicans, currently fighting for a spot in the Western Conference play-in tournament, have recently climbed to the #10 seed, surpassing the Portland Trail Blazers after securing back-to-back victories.
When it comes to betting, the Nuggets have struggled to cover the spread this season, posting a 29-32 ATS record. However, with their favorable schedule and the potential return of key players like Porter and Murray, that trend may shift in their favor.
Conclusion
The impending return of Michael Porter, Jr. from his back injury is undoubtedly a positive development for the Denver Nuggets. Alongside the potential comeback of Jamal Murray, the Nuggets are poised to become a formidable force in the Western Conference playoff race. With their star player Nikola Jokic leading the charge, the Nuggets have a real shot at making a deep postseason run. The remaining games on their schedule, particularly the upcoming home games against weaker opponents, provide an opportunity for the Nuggets to further solidify their playoff position and potentially make a championship run.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When did Michael Porter, Jr. suffer his back injury?
Michael Porter, Jr. experienced a back injury early in the current NBA season, which limited his playing time to only nine games.
2. How has Nikola Jokic performed during Porter’s absence?
Nikola Jokic has been exceptional throughout the season, putting up MVP-caliber numbers. Despite the absence of Murray and Porter for much of the season, Jokic has stepped up as the team’s primary scorer and playmaker.
3. How might Porter’s return affect the Nuggets’ playoff chances?
With Porter back in the lineup, the Nuggets’ chances of securing a higher playoff seed and making a deep postseason run significantly increase. His scoring ability and overall contribution will provide valuable support to Jokic, enhancing the team’s chances of success in the playoffs.
4. What are the future prospects for Jamal Murray’s return?
While there is hope for Jamal Murray’s return before the end of the regular season, the exact timeline remains uncertain. His presence would further bolster the Nuggets’ lineup and add another dimension to their playoff aspirations.
5. How have the Nuggets performed against the spread this season?
The Nuggets have struggled to cover the spread this season, with a 29-32 ATS record. However, with key players returning and a favorable schedule ahead, they have the potential to improve their performance in this aspect as well.
