For Michael Porter Jr. Making an All-Star team would be both a first and a childhood dream. And his career breakthrough makes it possible, even if unlikely.
“It would definitely be a dream come true. As a kid, I thought about making it to the NBA, but not just playing in the NBA, but being one of the best players in the NBA. And an All-Star selection shows that progress,” said Porter, who had a game-high 28 points and six rebounds in the Nets’ 106-95 loss to the Heat on Thursday night. “But that’s definitely not what I’m thinking about. I’ve always tried to be more process-oriented and do the right things day in and day out, game to game, and let the results take care of themselves.”
“I feel like when people start to focus and reach really hard for a result, that’s when they can get evaded. So I just try to stay focused on the game we’re playing with the group we have, and stay focused on getting better and getting some more wins. Whatever happens, happens. If I make it, cool. If not, I’m going on vacation. So I’m not really tripping anyway.”
Entering Thursday night’s game, Porter joined Luka Doncic as the only players averaging at least 25 points, seven rebounds and three threes per game. Porter, Doncic, Nikola Jokic, Lauri Markkanen and Deni Avdija were the only ones to even collect 25 points and seven boards.
“A lot of teams are just completely protecting me right now, so as far as easy shots and getting shots on my teammates driving… that’s not really going to happen. [Defenders] “I know I have to be very aggressive and decisive when I’m on the plays. When I’m off the ball and coming to the ball, I have to read the back door versus coming to the ball, and just be very quick, decisive and aggressive with it and try to create some confusion.”
Porter led the NBA with 40 3s vs. “tight defense” (a defender within four feet).
Haywood Highsmith continued his recovery after surgery on his right meniscus in August, now working on the field but still out of contact.
“He is in a good place, shows up every day and does his job, is an ultimate professional,” coach Jordi Fernández said. “And not just about taking care of his body and getting his work done. Right now he’s on the field with coaches. He hasn’t necessarily gotten into five-on-five or contact yet… but he’s done a good job.
“The most important thing for me is his experienced leadership, and how important he is to the rest of the group, especially the young guys. The whole group is quite young, so having someone like him means a lot to me because that really helps me. He puts his arm around someone who needs it, but also keeps him accountable when he needs to. So overall, he’s definitely doing his job, and that’s really good to have.”
Ben Saraf and Nolan Traore were at G-League Long Island, as were two-way players EJ Liddell and Tyson Etienne. Cam Thomas (hamstring) is expected to have his status updated by the end of this week.
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