When news broke that Michael Porter Jr. had been traded from the Denver Nuggets to the Brooklyn Nets, it sent ripples through the NBA world. Porter, who played an integral role in the Nuggets’ recent championship run, was seen as one of the key young pieces around Nikola Jokic. While trades are part of the business, the move still came as a surprise to many, including Porter’s longtime teammates.
In the aftermath of the deal, Jokic was asked about his thoughts on losing Porter, and in his typical dry, light-hearted manner, he delivered a comment that immediately went viral. With a smirk, Jokic said to reporters, “Make sure to wear a condom out there,” in reference to Porter’s new life in New York City. While the remark was clearly tongue-in-cheek, it quickly spread across social media, showcasing Jokic’s unique sense of humor and candid personality.
Jokic, known for his laid-back demeanor and blunt honesty, has always had a special bond with Porter. The two shared the floor for years, building chemistry that helped the Nuggets reach new heights, including capturing the franchise’s first-ever NBA title. Jokic’s remark, while playful, also highlighted the deep camaraderie within the Nuggets’ locker room—teammates who could joke with each other even in moments of change and uncertainty.
For Porter, the move to Brooklyn marks a fresh chapter. With the Nets in the midst of reshaping their roster, he is expected to play a central role in their offensive schemes. His scoring ability, particularly from beyond the arc, will provide Brooklyn with much-needed spacing and versatility. While leaving behind the reigning Finals MVP and a championship-contending team may be difficult, the opportunity to establish himself in a new city could also be exactly what Porter needs.
The comment from Jokic, meanwhile, has fueled countless memes and reactions online. Fans have interpreted it as both a playful farewell and a big-brother type of warning, reflective of the bond the two built over years of shared battles on the court. For a superstar often described as reserved and private, Jokic’s ability to crack such a blunt joke also reminded many of why he is one of the league’s most relatable figures.
As Porter prepares to suit up in Brooklyn, the words from his former teammate will likely follow him, both as a joke and as a reminder of the unique dynamic he shared with the Nuggets. For Jokic and Denver, the focus now shifts to adjusting their roster and preparing for another championship pursuit, though there’s no doubt Porter’s presence will be missed both on and off the court.
In the end, the remark captured what has long made Jokic beloved: a superstar unafraid to be himself, even in the spotlight, and a teammate who will always find a way to leave his mark—whether with brilliant passes on the court or unforgettable one-liners off it.
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