Former Denver Nuggets champion Michael Porter Jr. has called out the team's decision to start Christian Braun, linking it to roster problems after their 2023 title. The Nuggets' season ended with a first-round playoff loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, a 110-98 defeat on May 1, 2026, part of a tough recent run of one win and four losses.

What did Michael Porter Jr. say about Christian Braun?

Michael Porter Jr., a starter on the 2023 title team, said the Nuggets' issues began when Christian Braun moved into the starting lineup. This shift happened after veteran guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope left in free agency. Porter explained the change on his Curious Mike show.

He called Braun a very good player who was a major bench contributor during the championship run. Porter argued Braun is more effective as a reserve. The key difference is shooting. Caldwell-Pope was a pure three-point threat, while Braun excels as a cutter and in transition.

Braun is not a natural spot-up shooter, which changed the team's offensive dynamics. This analysis came after Braun signed a five-year, $125 million contract in October 2025.

How did Christian Braun perform last season?

Christian Braun's 2025-26 season was mixed. He averaged 12.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.7 assists over 44 regular-season games. An ankle injury caused him to miss significant time, limiting him to a career-low in appearances.

When healthy, he was a full-time starter. His three-point shooting, however, fell to a career-worst 30.1%. That low percentage is a problem for an offense built around Nikola Jokic, who needs spacing to operate at his best.

After the Nuggets were eliminated, Braun took personal responsibility for the team's disappointing finish. He told The Denver Post he is the team's vocal leader and did not play well enough individually. Braun also said he failed to have the team ready for a tough playoff series.

He vowed to improve next season, stating the team will be better. You can review his and the team's full season numbers on our [stats](/stats) page.

What are the broader roster issues for the Nuggets?

The criticism from Porter Jr. points to larger front-office decisions. After the 2023 championship, key players like Bruce Brown and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope departed without direct replacements.

The team also made contracts that did not provide good value, including deals for Zeke Nnaji and Christian Braun. Poor rookie contract outcomes further depleted the team's depth over recent years.

Financial pressure eventually forced a trade this offseason. The Nuggets sent young breakout player Peyton Watson to the Cleveland Cavaliers for a 2031 first-round draft pick to avoid a large tax bill.

The team's biggest offseason addition has been veteran wing DeMar DeRozan. His arrival aims to address some of the scoring and playmaking lost in recent years. Fans can track the updated roster on our [squad](/squad) page.

What comes next for Denver?

The Nuggets enter the new season with questions about their rotation and fit. Integrating DeMar DeRozan will be a primary focus for the coaching staff. They need to find the right balance between their established stars and role players.

Christian Braun's development as a shooter will be watched closely. Improving his three-point percentage is essential for the starting unit's spacing. His leadership role will also be tested as he looks to bounce back.