Cause for concern? Michael Porter Jr. cancels Pro Day workout due to injury
One of the biggest mysteries heading into the upcoming NBA draft is the stock of former Missouri player Michael Porter Jr. Before his college career began, Porter was largely considered the top prospect for the draft but that was before he lost nearly his entire freshman season to injuries.
While he did make a comeback for the end of Mizzou’s season, Porter appears to be hindered by injuries yet again. According to multiple reports, Porter has canceled his second Pro Day workout due to an issue with his hip. This injury doesn’t appear to be serious in nature but it’s yet another sign of Porter’s inability to stay healthy.
Had he made it thru his entire freshman campaign without injury, there’s a good chance Porter would be a lock for the top pick in the NBA draft but now there’s doubt that he’ll go with the first overall selection.
Sources: NBA Draft lottery teams were informed Wednesday that Missouri’s Michael Porter Jr., a projected high-lottery draft pick, canceled second Pro Day workout Friday because of hip spasms and would undergo tests.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 14, 2018
Apparently, it’s not just the injury bug that Porter has to shake, reports Jeff Goodman of ESPN.
Goodman listed Porter’s character as a question mark for NBA teams, which caused a good deal of negative reaction from Mizzou fans.
Gonna be interesting to see where MPJ lands next week in the draft. I still think he is second most talented in draft. But health/character questions persist. https://t.co/8a4Ei97adm
— Jeff Goodman (@GoodmanESPN) June 14, 2018
However, Goodman tried his best to explain his reason for sharing that info and put that off on what he’s hearing and not what he believes.
Numerous NBA executives have questions about Michael Porter Jr. His lack of interaction with his teammates at Missouri (even prior to injury), often seems disinterested. I have spent a good amount of time around MPJ over the years, and have never seen any of this.
— Jeff Goodman (@GoodmanESPN) June 14, 2018
The NBA annually takes chances on talented players with legit concerns but if Porter slides in the draft, it will be because of injury concerns and not anything related to his character. Despite the uncertainty regarding his health at this time, don’t be surprised to see Porter come off the board very early when the draft rolls around on Thursday, June 21.