Bruce Brown: From Underdog to Established Role Player

Photo Credit: Mike Ehrmann from Getty Images

After an incredible Game Four performance from Bruce Brown, the Denver Nuggets forward has established himself as an elite role player in the league, yet again. Brown emerged as the unlikely hero for the Nuggets in Game Four, amassing 21 points by the final buzzer. In the first three games of the 2023 NBA Finals, Brown was averaging just under nine points per game. That said, his contribution of 21 points was a pleasant surprise for Denver fans.

Although he comes off the bench, Brown does not let that deter him from competing at the highest level. He provides the Nuggets with an unparalleled level of energy on the defensive side of the ball. He often has to guard the opposing team’s top players, despite his lack of size. His incessant aggressiveness and hustle compensate for his relatively small stature, propelling him into a relentless and feared pest by his opponents.

Brown also played an integral role in sweeping the Los Angeles Lakers in the Western Conference Finals. In a press conference following the conclusion of the series, Brown underscored that his journey during free agency this previous summer was troubling. “Nobody wanted me,” Brown stated. The Denver Nuggets were one of the few teams to show interest in Brown and eventually signed him. It is safe to say that both parties have benefitted from the signing, as the Denver Nuggets are just one win away from winning their first championship in franchise history.

Going forward, Bruce Brown’s future with the Denver Nuggets is uncertain. Brown could enter unrestricted free agency this summer if he decides to opt out of the final year of his current contract. By proving his value with the Nuggets, potential suitors willing to offer more lucrative contracts could arise from other destinations. But first, Brown is focused on one thing and one thing only - winning one more game.