Denver Nuggets forward Michael Porter Jr. won't be with the team for some time as he deals with a lingering back issue.

Head coach Michael Malone confirmed the development Monday, noting that MPJ is “out for the foreseeable future.” Porter left Saturday's game against the Houston Rockets with the back issue and did not return. He was eventually unable to practice with the team as the Nuggets evaluate his injury.

Heading to Monday's game against the Miami Heat, the Nuggets ruled Porter out and called his injury “lower back pain.” However, it seems it is more serious than the vague designation.

The Nuggets have every reason to worry and be cautious about Michael Porter Jr.'s back. After all, he has had issues with back injuries prior to being drafted in 2018.

To recall, Porter underwent two surgeries on his back during his collegiate days and before the 2018 NBA Draft. He was once viewed as a potential no. 1 pick, but his injuries and inability to join pre-draft workouts because of his second surgery led him to slide to the Nuggets at no. 14.

Heading to the 2021-22 season, Porter was undoubtedly 100 percent healthy as he even worked on his all-around game. He was expected to have a breakout year, which is why the Nuggets also gave him the max rookie extension.

Unfortunately for Porter and the team, the back injury is another setback they have to deal with and go through. It's a massive blow for the Nuggets, though, as they are already dealing with the absence of Jamal Murray.