Braun, Hardaway Jr. Power Nuggets Past Grizzlies

Denver's supporting cast steps up in key win before All-Star break

Apr. 11, 2026 at 3:05am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a basketball game between the Denver Nuggets and Memphis Grizzlies, with sharp, overlapping planes of navy blue, gold, and light blue creating a dynamic, abstract composition.The Nuggets' supporting cast shines in a crucial win over the Grizzlies, showcasing the team's depth and resilience ahead of the All-Star break.Denver Today

The Denver Nuggets secured a crucial win over the Grizzlies, thanks to stellar performances from Christian Braun and Tim Hardaway Jr. Despite the absence of key players like Ja Morant and Zach Edey, the Nuggets' All-Stars and starting guards stepped up, showcasing their talent and leadership. However, the game wasn't without its challenges, as the Grizzlies' second-half comeback threatened to derail the Nuggets' momentum.

Why it matters

The Nuggets' ability to win without their top players demonstrates the team's depth and resilience, which will be crucial as they aim to maintain their position as the three-seed in the Western Conference. Braun and Hardaway Jr.'s contributions highlight the importance of role players in supporting the team's stars, especially during key stretches of the season.

The details

Nuggets coach David Adelman praised Christian Braun's outstanding performance, highlighting his versatility and impact on the game. Braun's double-digit scoring streak continued, contributing 14 points, seven rebounds, and six assists. Tim Hardaway Jr. also received recognition for his clutch performance, scoring 21 points, including a game-changing 3-pointer. Despite the impressive performances, the Nuggets faced challenges, committing 15 turnovers, with Jokic accounting for nine. The Grizzlies' second-defensive strategy when Jokic had his back turned caused issues, but Denver's advantage in points off turnovers and made 3-pointers kept them in the game.

  • The Nuggets' All-Star break ends on February 19th against the Clippers.

The players

Christian Braun

A versatile Nuggets player who contributed 14 points, seven rebounds, and six assists in the win over the Grizzlies.

Tim Hardaway Jr.

The Nuggets' All-Star guard who scored 21 points, including a game-changing 3-pointer, to help secure the win.

Nikola Jokic

The Nuggets' star center who had a strong performance, but also accounted for nine of the team's 15 turnovers.

Jamal Murray

The Nuggets' starting guard who played a key role in the team's victory.

David Adelman

The Nuggets' head coach who praised the performances of Braun and Hardaway Jr.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The Nuggets will face the Clippers on February 19th after the All-Star break, as they aim to maintain their position as the three-seed in the Western Conference.

The takeaway

The Nuggets' ability to win without their top players demonstrates the team's depth and resilience, which will be crucial as they navigate the remainder of the season. Braun and Hardaway Jr.'s contributions highlight the importance of role players in supporting the team's stars, especially during key stretches of the season.