Michael Porter Jr. returns from absence, trade value high amid fantasy activity

Brooklyn Nets forward Michael Porter Jr., a highly active player in fantasy basketball trades, is considered one of the hottest names on the market outside of Giannis Antetokounmpo, with the Nets potentially fetching two first-round picks for him. Porter Jr. is averaging almost 26 points in his first season in New York. He recently missed two games due to a death in the family, last playing on January 29 where he scored 38 points. Despite a strong offensive run prior to his absence, projections for his return game against the Lakers suggest he may fall short of 24.5 points, as the Lakers defense is expected to heavily focus on him.