NBA

Nuggets sign SG Christian Braun to five-year, $125 million contract extension

Due to the free-agency departure of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Braun took on an elevated role last season. He thrived in it, averaging 15.4 points, 5.2 rebounds and 2.6 assists per game. The swingman’s game is somewhat limited — his jumper and creation skills need work — but at 24, he’s already a solid starter.

There is, however, a long-term issue with this extension. The Nuggets’ future payroll commitments are substantial. While securing Braun for multiple years is prudent, Denver will be up against the first — or even second — apron across several seasons. Ben Tenzer has some work and salary-cap navigation ahead of him.

In the meantime, the Nuggets have a strong starting unit of Jamal Murray, Braun, Cameron Johnson, Aaron Gordon and Nikola Jokic locked in. Those five, along with a suddenly respectable bench, make Denver a contender. That, more so than money, is what’s important.

Grade: B-

Hawks sign SG Dyson Daniels to four-year, $100 million contract extension

Christian Braun’s extension was fair. This agreement, however, is highway robbery for the Hawks. Reported just minutes after Braun’s deal, I was stunned to read that Daniels will be making the same amount as his 2022 draft companion annually. Daniels is a better player, and his second-place finish in Defensive Player of the Year voting last season is evidence of that.

Just 22 years old, Daniels also won Most Improved Player a year ago, making a huge leap after being traded by the Pelicans. The shooting guard is a snug fit alongside Trae Young, and should be one of the best players on a suddenly formidable Atlanta squad. It wouldn’t be surprising if Daniels jumps from 14.1 points per game to over 16 this year.

Rookie-scale extensions are often bargains for clubs, but those steals are normally max contracts. This is low-end starter money, and Daniels should be much more than that. In fact, he probably is.

Atlanta did excellent work here.

Grade: A