3 Risks Denver Nuggets took by handing Michael Porter Jr. a max contract

#2 The Denver Nuggets could have waited

Phoenix Suns v Denver Nuggets - Game Four

I may be missing something, but I don't understand why the Denver Nuggets felt the need to offer Michael Porter Jr. a maximum extension this offseason. They are headed into the 2021-22 NBA season without their second most important piece in Jamal Murray, meaning a significantly increased responsibility for MPJ.

It is to be seen how he responds to the added defensive focus and the Denver Nuggets' need for him to create on the perimeter. We know that Porter is a high-level third player on a championship caliber roster, but you don't play $200-million to a player whose ceiling caps there.

Michael Porter Jr. could very well become that guy, he is only 25-years-old, but this season would have shed some light on that very question. The Denver Nuggets could have waited until the offseason with no concerns of getting outbid if they knew they were willing to offer maximum money if need be.

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#1 Michael Porter Jr.'s injury Concerns

Houston Rockets v Denver Nuggets

As mentioned at the top, Michael Porter Jr. suffered two notable back injuries before making his way to the Denver Nuggets. The Denver Nuggets did smartly elect to have the 6'10" wing sit his rookie season in the NBA, and there have been no reported back issues since.

The confusing aspect is why no incentives were added to his contract, revolving around the total number of games played in a given season. $172-million of the $207-million is guaranteed for Michael Porter Jr. and the only incentive required to reach that maximum mark is making an All-NBA team.

If MPJ does find himself on an All-NBA roster, the Denver Nuggets should be happy to pay him the full amount agreed to this offseason. The reality is that Porter has had injuries tied to his early basketball career, and all it could take is one more back issue for the Denver Nuggets to regret their decision.

I wish Michael Porter Jr. all the best health throughout the entirety of his NBA career, but it's shocking the Denver Nuggets would not include incentives in his maximum contract extension with that in mind.