Nuggets’ Braun Injured as Team Adjusts Lineup

DENVER, Colorado — The Denver Nuggets face a significant challenge as they adjust their lineup following an injury to swingman Christian Braun. Braun sprained his left ankle during a game against the LA Clippers on November 15 and will be evaluated in six weeks.

In that game, Braun rolled his ankle while defending James Harden. He temporarily returned to the game but was ultimately sidelined with 2:26 left in the first half. This injury comes just as the Nuggets were enjoying a strong start to the season with a 9-2 record.

Coach Ryan Adelman announced Monday that Peyton Watson will step into the starting role while Braun is out. Watson has shown promising defensive skills and will complement stars Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray, and Aaron Gordon. “He’s embraced it,” said Adelman, highlighting Watson’s unique abilities that benefit the starting unit.

In the recent matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Watson recorded 12 points, three rebounds, and showcased his defensive prowess by limiting Timberwolves‘ Anthony Edwards to under 35% shooting. Watson’s performance reinforced his potential impact as a starter.

While the loss of Braun is a blow, the Nuggets have built considerable depth this offseason. Players like Bruce Brown, who has experience from the team’s title run in 2023, and Tim Hardaway Jr. are expected to step up. Hardaway, who has been a valuable sixth man this season, may also see more time in the lineup.

“I didn’t want to start Tim, to be honest. But it just made sense,” Adelman explained about his choices in managing the lineup. The Nuggets have options, including Julian Strawther and Jalen Pickett, who are poised to play crucial roles in the absence of Braun.

As the Nuggets navigate this injury, they aim to maintain their strong performance through a busy schedule. Braun’s output, averaging 11.4 points and 4.4 rebounds per game, will be missed, especially since he plays a key role in the team’s offensive and defensive strategies.

With 17 games scheduled before Braun’s reevaluation date, Adelman remains optimistic about the roster’s depth. “We have options to make up for the loss,” he stated.