The Denver Nuggets' first rounder Michael Porter Jr has a real shot at being the most impactful player of the 2018 draft class, if he recovers from his spinal injuries. The Nuggets were in a position to roll the dice on him because A) their roster is positionally set B) the risk/reward with MPJ C) there weren't too many impact players below him by pick. 14.
In July it was announced Porter Jr would undergo his 2nd back surgery in 8 months to repair two bulging disks in his back. Although Denver were cautious not to announce a timetable for his return, reports from the player himself seem to indicate he is recovering nicely. Porter shared his recovery goals with ESPN, who were in attendance during the NBA's annual rookie photo shoot."I finally feel, like, good," said Porter. He also drew a mid-October date for his return. I guess Michael Porter Jr is really striving to suit up on opening day, against all odds.
"I don't have a date but I'm hoping to be back for the beginning of the year. Gotta heal up, but I feel great," Porter said. "They're really taking it easy with me, being patient with me."
Outside of his recovery, Porter Jr. has partaken in the NBA Rookie rhetoric almost unintentionally, when he "liked" an Instagram post that spoke of fellow rookie Luka Doncic as "overrated." In all honesty, we should wait until November before erected the NBA rookie ladder. Here's to hoping MPJ recovers as planned.