Fansided

Michael Porter Jr. optimistic he’ll return for Missouri this season

By Brad Berreman

COLUMBIA, MO - DECEMBER 19: Michael Porter Jr. #13 of the Missouri Tigers reacts from the bench during the game against the Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks at Mizzou Arena on December 19, 2017 in Columbia, Missouri. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)
COLUMBIA, MO - DECEMBER 19: Michael Porter Jr. #13 of the Missouri Tigers reacts from the bench during the game against the Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks at Mizzou Arena on December 19, 2017 in Columbia, Missouri. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) /
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His back injury was originally thought to be season-ending, but Michael Porter Jr. seems close to returning to the floor for Missouri.

Upon his arrival at Missouri as one of the top recruits in the 2017 class, Michael Porter Jr. was immediately anointed as a likely top NBA draft pick. But he has only played two minutes this season due to a back injury, and subsequent surgery that was first thought to be season-ending. But outside expertise suggesting a shorter recovery a couple of months ago seems to be coming to fruition, as Porter told reporters on Friday he’s optimistic about returning before this season is over.

“There’s a good chance,” Porter told reporters Friday afternoon. “I think doctors are going to be amazed at my progress. I’m feeling better every day. I’m hoping the doctor feels the same way.”

According to ESPN’s Jeff Goodman, Missouri head coach Cuonzo Martin said Porter has not yet been cleared to practice. But Porter was optimistic about being cleared to practice next week after meeting with doctors.

The Tigers are clinging to contention for an NCAA Tournament bid despite Porter’s absence, with a four-game winning streak pushing them to 17-8 with six regular season games to go. Those six contests are evenly split between home (Texas A&M, Ole Miss, Arkansas) and road (LSU, Kentucky, Vanderbilt), with the opportunity to earn a season sweep over John Calipari’s team on Feb. 24 standing out as a boost to Missouri’s tournament resume.

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Porter is still sure to declare for June’s NBA Draft, and he’s a likely top-10 pick whether he plays for Missouri again or not. But if he does return in the coming weeks, and can deliver on some of his potential in a now-shortened window, the Tigers will be a force to be reckoned with in the SEC Tournament and possibly the Big Dance.