Atlanta Hawks star Trae Young is making headlines, not for his own game, but for a bold prediction about his longtime friend and former AAU teammate, Michael Porter Jr.
During a recent offseason workout, Young confidently declared that Porter Jr. will average “25-plus points” in the upcoming NBA season.
“You’re averaging 25-plus this year… 25-plus easy,” Young said, responding to Porter Jr.’s goal of becoming a first-time All-Star.
Trae Young while working out with Brooklyn Nets forward Michael Porter Jr:
“You’re averaging at least 25… 25 easily”. #NetsWorld pic.twitter.com/jfLjiIkGvF
— NetsPress (@NetsPressIG) August 21, 2025
Porter Jr., now with the Brooklyn Nets following a summer trade from Denver, is stepping into a dramatically expanded role. With Cam Thomas still unsigned and no clear lead scorer on the roster, Porter Jr. is expected to be the focal point of Brooklyn’s offense. Head coach Jordi Fernandez confirmed that the 6’10” forward will be asked to take on responsibilities he’s never had before, including more ball-handling and shot creation.
“He’s going to be asked to do things that he’s never done before,” Fernandez said. “His usage and the shots he’s going to take—it’s exciting. It should be exciting for him.”
In Denver, Porter Jr. played behind Nikola Jokić and Jamal Murray, averaging 17.1 points over the last three seasons while primarily serving as a spot-up shooter. His most productive year came in 2020–21, when he averaged 19.0 points on elite shooting splits (54/45/79). Now, with the Nets rebuilding and looking for a new identity, Porter Jr. has the opportunity to showcase his full offensive arsenal.
“Last year, I was around 18 [points per game] as the third option,” Porter Jr. said. “I just feel like I have more in my tank still. I don’t feel like I’ve reached my peak.”
Young and Porter Jr. go way back, having won a Nike Peach Jam title together with MOKAN Elite. Their chemistry and mutual respect were on full display during the workout, where both players pushed each other toward their All-Star aspirations.
“Trae’s tryna get back to the All-Star game. I’m trying to be my first-time All-Star,” Porter Jr. said.
The prediction is bold, but not impossible. With increased usage, a green light on offense, and a chip on his shoulder, Porter Jr. has the tools to become one of the league’s top scorers. Whether he hits the 25-point mark or not, one thing is clear: the Nets are betting big on his potential, and so is Trae Young.
