Nuggets’ Porter Cleared to Face Spurs After Personal Absence

DENVER, Colo. – Michael Porter Jr. has been cleared to return for the Denver Nuggets’ game against the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday night after missing the last two games for personal reasons.

Porter, a key player for the Nuggets, has made significant contributions this season, averaging 18.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game while shooting 50.4 percent from the floor and 39.8 percent from three-point range. His return comes at a crucial time for the team, which is looking to bounce back from a heartbreaking double-overtime loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves.

The Nuggets fell 140-139 in that contest, with star center Nikola Jokic delivering a historic performance. Jokic recorded a 61-point triple-double, marking just the third instance in NBA history of a player achieving a 60-point triple-double. However, the tough minutes took a toll, and Jokic will rest during the second of the back-to-back games against the Spurs.

Despite Porter’s return, the Nuggets face challenges with eight players listed on their injury report. Notable absences include Jamal Murray, who is sidelined with a hamstring injury, and Aaron Gordon, who is out due to calf management. Other players affected include Christian Braun (left foot strain), Julian Strawther (left knee sprain), Peyton Watson (knee inflammation), and DaRon Holmes II (Achilles tendon repair).

“It’s never easy when you have multiple players out,” said Nuggets head coach Michael Malone. “But we’re confident that we have the depth to manage this. Having MPJ back is a big boost.”

The Spurs also face injury concerns, listing nine players on their report. Key players Victor Wembanyama and De'Aaron Fox are both out, with Wembanyama facing deep vein thrombosis in his shoulder, while Fox is recovering from surgery on his left finger.

As the Nuggets aim to reestablish themselves with a win, they currently hold a record of 47-29, placing them third in the Western Conference. Conversely, the Spurs are struggling, sitting 13th with a 31-44 record and on a five-game losing streak.

Wednesday’s game is set to tip-off at 9:00 p.m. EST at Ball Arena. The matchup will be available for live broadcast on ALT and FDSSW, and fans can also stream it on FuboTV.