Nets F Porter Focusing on Winning Over Statistical Growth

The Brooklyn Nets are looking to exceed the low expectations placed upon them heading into the 2026-2027 season.

The additions of Julius Randle, Mikel Brown Jr., and other new faces will definitely help the team improve, but to what extent?

Michael Porter Jr., the team's leading scorer from last season, has talked about his desire to help Brooklyn get back to consistent competitiveness, while expressing his want to be with the Nets for a long time throughout the offseason.

On Monday, Porter talked about what steps he is looking to take in his second year with the Nets.

"The main thing is winning," Porter said. "Who cares about putting up 20-plus points per game if you’re not winning? … One of the big things is being a winning player in this role. I think we can win a lot of games with me being a focal point on offense."

Last season, Porter had a career-year with his expanded role and ball-handling responsibilities, averaging 24.2 points, 7.1 rebounds and a career-best three assists per game.

Throughout the offseason, he and the Nets' front office have negotiated a potential contract extension, but no agreement has been found.

At Brooklyn's media day, General Manager Sean Marks talked about what he would like to see from Porter going forward.

"So for Mike to come in here and own that opportunity that he had and have a great year, I think we’re looking for consistency for him," Marks said. "We’re looking for him to take another step on the defensive end of it, rebounding end of it. Just become more of a complete player."

Last season, Porter did improve as a passer, which was a known weakness of his game with the Denver Nuggets.

With a willing playmaker and downhill driver like Randle on the team, Porter should play a lot more off-the-ball, getting open looks on the perimeter thanks to Randle's rim pressure.

While I still expect Porter to be one of the focal points of head coach Jordi Fernández's offense, Randle's ability to handle the ball and initiate offense will likely make him the primary forward.

Nevertheless, Porter's catch-and-shoot ability is one of his best attributes, which he should utilize more with the added offensive initiators on the team.

If Porter posts similar statistics this upcoming season, coupled by overall improvements from the team, it seems likely that he will get his big deal.

But, it remains to be seen if it will be with the Nets.

Brooklyn kicks off preseason Tuesday night against the Charlotte Hornets at 7:00 p.m.