He promised, so Michael Porter Jr. took it on and bounced back…

Without making any noise, nuggets are firmly settled in second place in the Western Conference, with a record of 9 wins after 13 games. And, the least we can say is that the collective of the Rockies has made a strong impression so far, with no less than seven players who are averaging at least 10 points.

Among them, there is obviously the double MVP Nikola Jokic, almost in triple-double of average, as well as the returning Jamal Murray, without forgetting Michael Porter Jr.. This is none other than the third thief of the “Big 3” from denver and above all, he has just delivered, in just three quarters, his best performance of the season against the Bulls: 31 points in 24 minutes, 11/16 on shots (including 6/9 at 3-pts)!

” I let him run for most of the third quarter because he had a hot hand and because I didn’t want to be the one cooling him down. », recognized for example Michael Maloneconcerning the offensive eruption of his winger after the break: 16 points in 12 minutes, 6/9 on shots (including 4/5 at 3-pts)!

What if “MPJ” came of age?

Despite his statistics of 18.0 points and 6.4 rebounds per game, 50% on shots and 48% at 3-pts, Michael Porter Jr., however, is not always one of the most highlighted Nuggets players. The fault, in particular, of his shortcomings in defense, which sometimes still cost him minutes in the rotation, despite the recent satisfaction of his coach at this level.

This was also the case on Friday evening, on the floor of the Celtics, when “MPJ” played only 25 minutes, for only 7 points and 4 rebounds, in the large defeat of his team in Massachusetts. A failed performance, and that’s an understatement, in all areas of the game, that the person concerned had promised to quickly forget.

Word kept, therefore, with this card against Chicago, which allowed Michael Porter Jr. to receive praise from Michael Malone, about his “ maturity “.

” As simple as it sounds, many gamers aren’t ready to look in the mirror and be honest with themselves. », was judging the Denver coach, in reference to the discussion he had with his winger, after the correction received in Boston.

And Michael Porter Jr. then talks about his progress in the mental aspect, in order to better understand the delicate periods he may be confronted with…

” You have to grow “, he explained as well. ” You can’t always blame it on others. So I always try to see what I can do to grow. »

The key to the Nuggets’ success?

Words that finally echo those spoken last week by Michael Porter Jr, coming out of victory against Spurs, when he declared that he did not count ” not be selfish “, because the Nuggets have a good depth of bench. Which can, as against San Antonio precisely, cost him playing time in hot moments.

Ditto for his defense, which nevertheless progresses over the weeks, according to Michael Malone…

” There were possessions where he wasn’t very involved on the ball, but his focus on the weak side and in the post, as well as his multiple efforts, were huge. “added the 51-year-old technician. ” I have already said a lot this season. Michael [Porter Jr.] really tries hard on defense. He’s trying, he’s aware of it, and it’s the best, most consistent effort I’ve ever seen him do. »

What legitimize, in the long term, the candidacy of Denver among the contenders for the title? Not impossible, with an improving Michael Porter Jr. and a five and a bench that complement each other better and better…