Michael Porter Jr. ‘Not Tripping’ Over All-Star Selection Despite Stellar Season

Michael Porter Jr. has been balling out for the Brooklyn Nets this season, as he has capitalized on more self-creation on the offensive end. Porter Jr.'s impressive season has gained him some All-Star buzz.

With such, Porter Jr. got candid on his potential first All-Star nod, saying that it is a dream to be part of the teams, but he is not sweating over it if ever he is not selected.

“It definitely would be a dream come true. It was in my mind as a kid to make the NBA," Porter Jr. said via the New York Post. "But not only be in the NBA but be one of the best players in the NBA. And an All-Star selection shows that progress.” "Then whatever happens, happens. If I make it, cool. If not, I’m going on vacation. So, I’m not really tripping either way.”

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Porter Jr. added that he remained focused on what he is showing off on the court despite the All-Star talk.

“I feel like when people start focusing and reaching really hard for a result, that’s when it can evade them. So I’m trying to just stay focused on the game to game with the group we have, and stay focused on getting better, getting some more wins."

Porter Jr. is averaging a career-high 25.7 points per game on 49.3 percent from the field and 39.6 percent from the 3-point line. He is also putting up 7.3 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game.

However, Porter Jr's numbers have yet to translate to wins as the Nets currently stand at the 13th spot in the Eastern Conference with a 7-19 record.

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Michael Porter Jr. opens up on offensive adjustments as defenses zero in on him

Michael Porter Jr. has seen opposing defenses zero in on him as he takes a considerable offensive leap this season. According to Porter Jr., he now has to adjust his approach to score against tighter schemes against him.

“A lot of teams now are just completely face-guarding me, so as far as easy shots and getting shots off of my teammates driving,” Porter said. “So, I know I’ve got to be very aggressive and decisive when I’m in the actions, when I’m off the ball, coming to the ball, I’ve got to read the back door vs. coming to the ball, and just be very quick and decisive and aggressive with it

In his first six seasons in the NBA, Porter Jr. played more of a spot-up role with the Denver Nuggets as the team was anchored by the potent two-man game of Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray.

With the Nets, he has the most of the possession, allowing him more leeway in the team's offense.

Edited by Rob Andrew Lo