Michael Porter Jr Sparks Nets Trade Buzz With Bucks Interest

Michael Porter Jr. has become trade bait after proving he can be a top option for the Nets, averaging 25.8 points on 49.6 percent shooting and 41 percent from deep. Executives told Jake Fischer Porter has "returned to neutral value" and one asked "Who couldn't use an MPJ?" Several teams, including the Bucks, are watching, and a deadline move could help Brooklyn's rebuild. Merlin sees a cautious market. Neutral value means teams respect Porter's upside but will not overpay. His scoring and sharpshooting make him attractive, so Brooklyn can likely extract picks or role players if they decide to move him. If Porter keeps producing his price will rise and a contender needing shooting could pounce, making him a "name worth watching."