Denver Nuggets forward Michael Porter Jr. is dealing with a considerable nerve issue in his back that may require surgery, potentially threatening his ability to play again this season, sources told the Denver Post's Mike Singer.
The Nuggets reportedly gave the young forward a week to improve before weighing other treatments. Porter is currently away from the team and is gathering more opinions on his condition, according to Singer.
Porter has a history of back issues. The 23-year-old previously underwent a microdiscectomy to repair a bulging disc in November 2017, costing him all but three outings in his lone year at Missouri. He had a second procedure on his spine in July 2017, erasing what would have otherwise been his rookie season with the Nuggets in 2017-18.
Porter hasn't appeared since Nov. 6. In nine games to start the campaign, the third-year pro put up 9.9 points and 6.6 rebounds per contest - well below last year's career highs of 19 points and 7.3 rebounds.
His five-year, $172.6-million extension begins next season.
