Denver Nuggets rookie Michael Porter Jr. was once the top prospect in the country. With a massive frame and the ability to get his own shots from off the dribble, he was a cut above the rest.

Sadly, an injury slowed his trajectory towards stardom. He needed back surgery, and the question was “Will he ever be the same?”

Despite those red flags, the Nuggets decided to a gamble on draft night. They took him as their first pick — 14th overall. It seemed like yesterday when he was at the top of the pack.

Now, he has a chance to redeem himself. He can prove everyone wrong. Porter can still prove he is the best. His team needs him now, more than ever as Wilson Chandler’s departure has left a glaring hole in the rotation.

Unfortunately, redemption will have to wait for now. Per Alec Lewis of Yahoo! Sports:

“Michael Porter Jr. has not been cleared yet for full activity, per his agent Mark Bartelstein. MPJ is proceeding through rehab, and he can hoist jumpers (as seen during yesterday's rookie shoot).”

He might not be in the Rookie of the Year conversation unlike Luka Doncic and Deandre Ayton, but with his well-documented talent, it would be hard not to keep tabs on him.

He will definitely not suit up in the near future, but once he is ready, he will make it known through his basketball that he has arrived in the NBA.