The Denver Nuggets explored several options to strengthen their bench ahead of the NBA regular season, including a potential trade with the Milwaukee Bucks involving guard Kevin Porter Jr.
Denver held discussions with Milwaukee about acquiring Porter in exchange for veteran center Zeke Nnaji and two second-round draft picks.
The proposed deal would have provided the Nuggets with another ball-handler and scoring option for their second unit, while the Bucks would have received additional draft assets.
However, negotiations ultimately failed because Milwaukee was unwilling to take on Nnaji’s remaining contractual obligations.
The 26-year-old center holds a $7.5 million player option for the 2027-28 season, which he is widely expected to exercise.
That financial commitment reportedly prevented the Bucks from moving forward with the trade.
Milwaukee subsequently waived Porter, making him available to other NBA teams without requiring a trade.
Denver still has an open roster spot and could pursue the guard through free agency.
A prorated veteran minimum contract worth more than $2 million would provide a potential route to signing him.
However, the Nuggets face significant financial restrictions.
The franchise is already approximately $3.2 million above the NBA’s second luxury tax apron, and adding another player would further increase its payroll and potential tax obligations.
Although Porter could address Denver’s need for additional backcourt depth, the team’s apparent reluctance to increase its luxury tax bill may prevent it from pursuing him.
