The Denver Nuggets‘ success isn’t a coincidence.
Not only have they been patient with Mike Malone and stood by him through thick and thin, but they’ve also put together a very well-rounded roster with balance at every single position.
Even rookie Christian Braun has had some great moments this season, and he’s played himself into the playoff rotation as well.
The Kansas product was at his best in Game 3, making winning plays on both ends of the floor, up to the point where Nikola Jokic even claimed that he had “won the game” for them, per ESPN.
Nikola Jokic gave Christian Braun his flowers 💐 pic.twitter.com/ZG6rJID5Sz
— ESPN (@espn) June 8, 2023
Of course, Jokic was quite humble with that statement, as he had a 30-20 triple-double, and Jamal Murray also scored 34 with ten dimes and ten boards, but Braun did deserve his flowers.
The athletic guard/forward posted 15 points on 7/8 from the floor, going perfect from within two-point territory, but his hustle plays were what set the tone in Wednesday night’s huge win.
Michael Porter Jr. had arguably his worst playoff game ever with just seven points, but that’s just the beauty of this Nuggets squad.
Even when things don’t go a player’s way, they have so many pieces that can step up and have big games on any given night.
They’re now just two wins away from their very first championship in franchise history, and the Heat will have a tough time shifting the momentum back on their side, especially if Braun continues to be an X-factor for a team that didn’t need any extra help already.
NEXT: Nikola Jokic Made History With Ease In Game 3
