Denver Nuggets Sign Rising Star to Massive Extension

The Denver Nuggets are in the midst of the greatest run in franchise history, and with superstar Nikola Joki? leading the way, optimism is high heading into the new season. That comes on the back of the team acquiring Cam Johnson, Jonas Valan?i?nas, and Bruce Brown, but it's a homegrown rising star that's captured the most attention.

Back in 2022, the Nuggets used their No. 21 overall pick on guard Christian Braun, and after playing just 15 and 20 minutes in his first two seasons, he broke out a year ago. In 34 minutes a night, Braun averaged 15 points per night on 40% shooting from three, establishing himself as a key piece of this lineup alongside Joki?, Jamal Murray, and Aaron Gordon.

Now, the organization has made a commitment to the 24-year-old, with Shams Charania revealing they've signed him to a five-year, $125 million rookie extension, likely to be their starting two-guard for a long time to come.

In years gone by, this may have been an overpay, but with Braun's production last season and his potential moving forward, it's safe to say that he's worth every penny as the team looks to build another NBA title-winning squad.

While the Nuggets may not look as loaded as other teams heading into 2025?26, with Braun locked in, this lineup around Joki? is perfect for their superstar big man, and with Braun locked in on a fairly affordable deal, it sets them up as contenders for years to come.