The Nuggets almost survived to Jokic’s return. They were down 88-84. The last minute without him was a near-death sentence, though. Sam Hauser knocked down a transition drive-and-kick 3-pointer to bring the house down with 8:11 to go, highlighting a 6-0 burst.

What can the Nuggets expect in the playoffs? Opposing defenses will dare non-shooters to shoot, yes, but offenses will target perceived weaknesses on Denver’s defensive end, too.

Braun was impactful in multiple facets, recording his fourth double-double of the season. Starting alongside Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray and Michael Porter, the 23-year-old isn't asked to shoulder a heavy load on offense,

drives past Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray (27) in the first half of an NBA basketball game, Sunday, March 2, 2025, in Boston. (AP Photo/Steven Senne) Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum, right, drives past Denver Nuggets guard Christian Braun ...

Mar 9, 2025; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) moves the ball down the court against Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray (27) during the second quarter at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images

(AP Photo/Morry Gash) Denver Nuggets’ Jamal Murray gets past Milwaukee Bucks’ AJ Green during the first half of an NBA basketball game Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025, in Milwaukee. (AP Photo/Morry Gash) Denver Nuggets’ Christian Braun and Milwaukee Bucks ...

BOSTON — Jamal Murray scowled at the nearest official ... Peyton Watson and even Christian Braun to shoot 3s in order to disrupt Denver’s spacing, they’ll be equally inclined to target ...