Michael Porter Jr. Shines Despite Injury in Nuggets’ Game 3 Win

DENVER (AP) — Michael Porter Jr. scored 21 points and grabbed eight rebounds in the Denver Nuggets‘ 113-104 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 3 of the Western Conference semifinals on Friday night.

Porter, who has been battling a sprained left shoulder since April 22, showcased his skills with a notable performance while stepping up in the absence of teammate Nikola Jokic, who had a subpar game. He shot 7-of-10 from the field, including a remarkable 5-of-6 from beyond the arc.

“Even though playing through it makes it heal slower, they know it’s not something that’s dangerous to play with,” Porter said. “So, they’re trusting me to go out there and space the floor, make it easier on other guys if I can and then I’ve just got to contribute on the glass and defensively as best I can.”

Porter’s performance was crucial as the Nuggets faced the top-seeded Thunder. Although he struggled in the first two games of the series, he felt more like himself in this outing.

“It’s been tough, playoffs and I’m wanting to play at a high level,” he admitted. He expressed his desire to help his team win despite the limitations caused by his injuries.

The Nuggets needed Porter to perform, especially after Aaron Gordon‘s late three-pointer sent the game into overtime. Once in extra time, the Nuggets outscored Oklahoma City 9-2 to seal the victory.

“When they shoot the ball it feels like the whole world is in the paint,” Nuggets interim coach David Adelman noted, emphasizing the importance of rebounding in the game’s outcome.

With two playoff games behind him where he managed only 10 points and a collective 3-for-18 shooting, Porter’s resurgence is an encouraging sign for the Nuggets. The team now heads into Game 4 with a chance to extend their series lead at Ball Arena on Sunday.

“It’s been an up-and-down playoffs for me, but that’s OK because we’re in a good position as a team,” Porter added.

Teammate Jamal Murray praised Porter’s resilience, stating, “People don’t understand what he’s played through and how much he’s played through his whole career.”