Nuggets’ Malone Staunchly Defends Michael Porter Jr. Amid Forward’s Struggles

Nuggets sharpshooter Michael Porter Jr. has been anything but his usual self in the first three games of the NBA Finals, averaging just 7.0 points per game while shooting 25.8% from the floor and 15.8% from three.

His shooting troubles are a far cry from what Denver fans are used to seeing out of Porter this postseason, as he’s averaged 13.3 points and 8.1 rebounds and has developed into a much better defender than he’s been in years past.

Despite his struggles on the offensive end, which included a benching during the fourth quarter of Game 3, Denver coach Michael Malone defended his young wing as he met with reporters ahead of Friday night’s Game 4.

“Right now, people want Michael Porter out of the lineup. Michael Porter is not coming out of the lineup, man,” Malone said, per Joe Vardon of The Athletic. “Zero discussion [internally] about making any changes.”

So could Porter make an impact offensively in this series and bust out of his shooting slump? Malone certainly believes so.

“As far as him kind of getting back into his groove, I was talking today about understanding that we wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for all the contributions and growth that you’ve shown us throughout this year,” Malone said. “Go out there and play, be aggressive, shoot the ball with confidence. And remember, you’re not a specialist. We don’t bring in specialists. And I have no doubt that, and I mean this, I have zero doubt in my mind that Michael Porter is going to have a big game and help us win a championship.”

The Nuggets lead the series 2–1 heading into Game 4 in Miami on Friday night.