After the Denver Nuggets secured an impressive 113-104 overtime victory against the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 2 of their second-round series, forward Michael Porter Jr. revealed to reporters that his left shoulder injury could have kept him off the court for four to six weeks. Despite the severity of the injury, Porter scored 21 points and grabbed eight rebounds during the game, helping to give the Nuggets a surprising 2-1 lead over the top-seeded Thunder.
Porter sustained the shoulder injury during Game 2 of the Nuggets’ first-round series against the Los Angeles Clippers while diving for a loose ball, resulting in a Grade 2 sprain. This injury makes it painful and difficult for him to raise his arm. However, he has continued to push through the discomfort, refusing to miss any games so far in the playoffs. Despite facing challenges in his performance at times, he has also stepped up significantly when it counts, contributing 17 points in a pivotal Game 4 against the Clippers and a postseason-high 21 points in Game 3 against the Thunder.
Jamal Murray praised Porter’s resilience, stating, “People don’t understand or know what he plays through or how much he’s played through his whole career. It’s a testament to his resilience and love for the game.” Once seen as a potential No. 1 overall pick in the draft, Porter fell to the 14th pick due to previous injury concerns that required multiple surgeries on his back.
Remarkably, after battling through injuries early in his career, Porter has largely remained healthy in recent seasons, playing in a career-high 81 games last season and 77 games this season. He understands the stakes of the current playoffs and is determined to contribute to his team’s success. “I just think that it’s do-or-die for our team, so I don’t feel the pull to really try to rest it,” he said, emphasizing his commitment to the team’s goals.
Porter’s determination and scoring ability have propelled the Nuggets closer to the Western Conference finals, defying expectations following the recent changes in the team’s coaching staff. His willingness to battle through injury serves as an inspiration, showcasing the spirit and tenacity that can lead a team to victory against the odds.
The Nuggets are now only two wins away from advancing, and Porter’s fight exemplifies the grit necessary in high-stakes playoff scenarios.