After clean MRI on hip, Michael Porter Jr. cleared to work out for teams Friday
After canceling his second pro-day workout, Missouri’s Michael Porter Jr. — a projected high-lottery pick — underwent an MRI on his hip Thursday that returned clean and has been cleared to work out for teams on Friday afternoon, league sources told Yahoo Sports.
Teams in the lottery for the June 21 draft told Yahoo Sports that they were informed on Wednesday that Porter’s workout was canceled, and he would undergo further testing. Porter’s agency, Priority Sports, has been transparent with teams throughout the pre-draft process, and informed teams Thursday that his MRI had “an even more positive review” compared to a recent examination. After being cleared by his doctor Thursday night, the workout assessment was rescheduled for Friday in Chicago, league sources said.
Porter’s training has been ramped up over the past three weeks, causing the spasms in his hip. Porter had his first pro day last Friday, and teams in attendance told Yahoo Sports that Porter shot the ball exceptionally and moved without discomfort.
With Deandre Ayton expected to be the No. 1 overall pick to the Phoenix Suns, every team in the lottery has closely inspected Porter, and he could be drafted as high as No. 2 to the Sacramento Kings. The Kings have focused on selecting a perimeter big, league sources said, with Duke’s Marvin Bagley III a potential target. Michigan State’s Jaren Jackson Jr. and Texas’ Mohamed Bamba are also expected to be high picks.
Porter is seen as one of this draft’s top talents, but teams have consistently monitored his health. Porter underwent back surgery last season with Missouri before returning prior to the NCAA tournament in March. In three games last season, Porter averaged 10 points, 6.7 rebounds and one steal. Porter needed to revamp his workout regimen once the college season ended and has continued to train in Chicago.
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