Denver Nuggets guard Christian Braun has secured a significant contract extension, valuing at $125 million over five years. This agreement was confirmed by his agent, Bill Duffy, to ESPN on a recent Monday.
Contract Details
Braun, originally selected as the 21st pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, has emerged as a key player for the Nuggets. His performance last season led the franchise’s top executives, Ben Tenzer and Jon Wallace, to prioritize a long-term deal to solidify Braun’s position within the team’s core.
Performance Highlights
In the 2023-24 season, Braun averaged 15.4 points per game, marking an increase from 7.3 points in the previous season. His overall performance included:
- 5.2 rebounds per game
- 2.6 assists per game
- 39.7% shooting from beyond the arc
- 79 games played, including 77 starts
These statistics highlight his breakout season, showcasing a career-high in every category.
Impact on the Team
Braun’s development at the shooting guard position has been crucial for the Nuggets. He complements established stars such as Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray, and Aaron Gordon, along with new teammate Cameron Johnson.
Fastbreak Dominance
Notably, Braun led the NBA in total fastbreak points during the last season, a testament to his speed and offensive skill set. He became the first player to achieve over 400 fastbreak points in a season since Buddy Hield in 2018-19.
Championship Contribution
At just 24 years old, Braun was also a significant contributor to the Nuggets’ championship-winning team in 2023, further solidifying his importance to the franchise’s future.
