The Denver Nuggets made a pivotal move in the 2025 offseason by trading Michael Porter Jr. to the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for Cam Johnson and a 2032 first-round pick. The Nuggets, eager to enhance their roster without taking on additional risk, succeeded in offloading Porter Jr.'s hefty contract while landing a player who fits their desired style better. Johnson, known for his sharpshooting and defensive capabilities, averaged nearly 19 points per game last season and aims to complement the Nuggets' star lineup led by Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray.

This acquisition not only strengthens the Nuggets' roster but also provides significant financial relief, as Johnson's contract is $17 million less than Porter's. For the Nets, acquiring Porter Jr. offers a chance to build around a player who can potentially flourish with expanded offensive opportunities. Additionally, the unprotected draft pick adds a valuable asset for the Nets' future.

The Denver Nuggets are making a significant move by trading Michael Porter Jr. along with a 2032 unprotected first-round pick to the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for Cam Johnson. Porter Jr., who has been a key player for the Nuggets, is set to earn $38.3 million next season, with his contract escalating to $40.8 million in the 2026-27 season. Johnson, on the other hand, is secured at $21.1 million next season, increasing to $23.3 million in 2026-27.

Porter Jr. has averaged 18.2 points and 7 rebounds in his latest season. His departure comes as he has spent his entire six-year career with Denver. Meanwhile, Johnson has had a breakout season, averaging a career-high 18.8 points per game, shooting 47.5% from the field and 39% from three-point range. His acquisition comes as the Nets continue to rebuild.

Additionally, the Nuggets have signed Bruce Brown Jr. to a one-year deal, further solidifying their roster for the upcoming season.

The New York Knicks are navigating an intriguing offseason after reaching the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since 2000. They recently parted ways with head coach Tom Thibodeau and are now seeking a new leader as free agency approaches. The Knicks made a strategic pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, selecting Mohamed Diawarra 51st overall while also signing undrafted Dink Pate.

As they prepare for free agency, the Knicks need to focus on enhancing their bench around a core that includes Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, and Josh Hart. Recent reports suggest the Knicks are showing interest in former NBA MVP Russell Westbrook, who could provide much-needed depth and leadership as a veteran guard. While Westbrook's days as an MVP may be behind him, his performance with the Nuggets last season indicates he still has the ability to impact games significantly.

The New York Knicks have set their sights on Russell Westbrook as a potential target in the upcoming free agency, according to NBA insider Marc Stein. Westbrook, a nine-time All-Star and former MVP, had a mixed season with the Denver Nuggets, averaging 13.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.9 rebounds in 75 games. His performance has been marked by volatility; he can provide high-energy plays but also tends to be a distraction. As the Knicks look to bolster their bench, Westbrook's affordable contract could offer an exciting, albeit risky, option.

Despite being on the decline and turning 37 in the 2025-26 season, Westbrook's experience and ability to energize a team could fit well with the Knicks' needs, especially after a playoff run that exposed their bench depth issues. The Knicks may be willing to take this gamble to inject some spark into their rotation, particularly given Westbrook's prior success.

The Denver Nuggets are on the cusp of returning to the NBA Finals after a challenging playoff exit against the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference semifinals. Despite a valiant effort from three-time MVP Nikola Jokic, the team succumbed to a significant Game 7 defeat, marking two consecutive playoffs where the Nuggets have been eliminated in the second round. This follows their historic run to the NBA Championship just a year earlier.

A key player missing from the Nuggets' recent playoff efforts is Bruce Brown, a pivotal figure during their championship run in 2023. As he enters free agency, speculation is growing about a potential reunion between Brown and the Nuggets, which could provide the team with much-needed depth and veteran leadership off the bench.