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NBA Offseason: Top 5 most underrated moves so far this summer
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JANUARY 12: Jamal Murray #27 of the Denver Nuggets dribbles as Bruce Brown #1 of the Brooklyn Nets defends during the first half at Barclays Center on January 12, 2021 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City, NBA Offseason: Top 5 most underrated moves so far this summer. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)
NBA Offseason: Top 5 most underrated moves so far this summer – 5. Denver Nuggets sign Bruce Brown
Forward Bruce Brown did well to escape the dysfunction of the Brooklyn Nets. The Denver Nuggets, meanwhile, were smart to sign the strong defender to a reasonable deal. Brown signed a two-year, $13 million deal with the Nuggets. He should have little issue fitting in with the team and their culture, particularly on the defensive end.
Despite standing at 6’4, Brown has the rugged demeanor to guard virtually across the spectrum. He’ll spend most of his time challenging shooting guards or small forwards but can move up and down depending on what’s needed.
He even has the ability to take on the opponent’s center. With Nikola Jokic and DeAndre Jordan around, there may not be a reason for Brown to play that role, but it would be fun.
Brown’s contributions on the offensive end may not shine through as well. He played in over 24 minutes per night last season but only averaged 9.0 points and 4.8 rebounds per game. Once again, his defense stood out in the counting stats, with 1.1 steals per game.
Assuming fellow newcomer Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is in the starting lineup, Brown will likely come off the bench. Brown has a similar skillset to Caldwell-Pope at a slightly lower level and should be able to fill in for him adequately.
The potential of a bench unit anchored by Brown, Aaron Gordon, and Bones Hyland is enough to make any opposing bench blush. With Brown in the fold, Denver should have one of the better benches in the league. Assuming Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. return to form, Brown could help make Denver a sneaky title contender.
