The Denver Nuggets’ early-season surge hit a moment of concern on Wednesday night when rising wing Christian Braun exited their matchup against the Los Angeles Clippers with a left ankle injury. The team later announced that Braun was questionable to return, leaving fans anxious about the status of one of their most impactful young players.

The Nuggets, sitting at 8-2, have looked every bit the powerhouse expected of a Nikola Jokić-led team, and Braun’s emergence has been a major part of that success. The 24-year-old guard-forward has carved out a significant role in David Adelman’s rotation this season, averaging 11.9 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game while shooting 48.4% from the field.

His energy, defensive hustle, and chemistry with Jokić have made him a fan favorite in Denver, a glue guy who does a little bit of everything to make the team’s engine run smoothly. Though he was seen on the bench later in the game, the Nuggets were cautious about rushing him back into action, opting to evaluate the injury further postgame.

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Fans on social media echoed those sentiments, praising Braun’s relentless energy and chemistry with Jokić, which has become one of Denver’s underrated storylines this season. His ability to play off the two-time MVP as a cutter and secondary playmaker has given the Nuggets’ second unit a consistent spark.

As Denver continues its road trip, the team will likely monitor Braun’s ankle closely. If he misses time, expect players like Peyton Watson and Bruce Brown to absorb some of his minutes, though neither replicates the same hustle and rhythm Braun brings to the lineup.

For now, Nuggets fans will be holding their breath, hoping their young star’s injury proves minor as Denver aims to continue its winning momentum.